Intersociety claims 3,610 killed, 3,960 abducted by terrorists in six months

The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) has released a mid-year report detailing significant violence across Nigeria, claiming that suspected Islamic terrorist groups killed 3,610 people and abducted 3,960 others between January and June 2026. The human rights organization also alleged widespread destruction of religious sites and forced conversions.

According to the report, approximately 300 churches were destroyed during this six-month period. Furthermore, Intersociety claims that 800 abducted Christian women and children were forcibly converted to Islam. The report documented 22 categories of international crimes allegedly committed by terrorist groups, including killings, abductions, and attacks on places of worship. The organization stated that victims included about 2,550 Christians and 1,050 Muslims killed, with 2,800 Christians and 1,150 Muslims abducted.

The report highlighted specific impacts on religious leaders, noting that 10 Christian pastors were killed and another 10 were abducted, alongside the attacks on churches. It identified Plateau and southern Borno states as having the highest number of Christian fatalities, while southern Borno and southern Kaduna recorded the most Christian abductions. Attacks were also reported across numerous other states, including Benue, Taraba, Niger, and Oyo.

Intersociety also alleged that at least 850 Muslim civilians were killed and approximately 850 others abducted by jihadist groups. The report further claimed that about 200 Muslim civilians died in military airstrikes in Yobe, Borno, and Zamfara states, and dozens of Christians were reportedly killed in a military airstrike in Niger State on May 10, 2026. The organization strongly criticized the Federal Government's response to the escalating insecurity, stating that authorities have failed to adequately address the situation. Intersociety also called for the resignation of the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Nazila Ghanea, accusing her of downplaying religious persecution in Nigeria.