SERAP Urges UN to Act Over Rising Insecurity in Nigeria

On Sunday, May 31, 2026, in Nigeria, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) called on United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to take urgent steps regarding the country’s worsening security situation, arguing that the crisis now carries implications beyond Nigeria’s borders.

The request was contained in an open letter dated May 30 and made public through the organisation’s official communication channels. SERAP asked the UN chief to activate Article 99 of the United Nations Charter, a provision that allows the Secretary-General to bring matters threatening international peace and security before the Security Council.

According to the organisation, persistent attacks, kidnappings, killings and mass displacement across several Nigerian states have created a humanitarian situation that requires international attention. SERAP said the violence has continued to affect communities in different parts of the country, including Oyo, Benue, Borno, Plateau, Kaduna and Zamfara states.

The group argued that the security challenges can no longer be viewed solely as a domestic issue because of their wider effects on regional stability in West Africa. It noted that the movement of armed groups across borders, growing displacement and humanitarian pressures have increased concerns about the broader impact of the crisis.

SERAP pointed to recent incidents involving schoolchildren, teachers, travellers and rural residents who have been targeted by criminal groups and armed attackers. The organisation referenced cases of abductions and deadly attacks in several states, as well as bomb explosions and raids that have resulted in loss of lives and injuries.

The organisation said years of recurring violence have left many communities living in fear and have created deep social and economic problems. It added that thousands of people have been displaced from their homes while many farming communities continue to face attacks that affect food production and livelihoods.

SERAP also noted that international bodies and the United Nations have previously expressed concern about insecurity in Nigeria and its effect on humanitarian conditions. It argued that stronger international engagement is needed to help prevent further deterioration of the situation.

As part of its appeal, the organisation urged the UN Secretary-General to place the matter before the Security Council and seek regular discussions on attacks, displacement and humanitarian conditions in Nigeria. It also called for support aimed at protecting civilians, improving monitoring efforts, investigating attacks and ensuring accountability for those responsible.

The appeal comes at a time when security concerns remain a major issue across several parts of Nigeria, with recurring reports of kidnappings, attacks on communities and insurgent activities continuing to raise concerns among citizens and international observers.