The National Coalition Against Mass Killings and Impunity, in collaboration with the Gani Fawehinmi Memorial Organisation, has raised concerns about alleged threats and potential harassment of its members by the military following its statement on the Yelwata massacre in Benue State.

The Defence Headquarters had denied allegations that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, made insensitive remarks regarding the massacre. However, in a petition dated June 22, 2025, addressed to local and international human rights bodies, the coalition expressed fears of intimidation and harassment. The petition was sent to the National Human Rights Commission, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the United Nations, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and other rights organisations.

The coalition stated that it is being wrongfully accused of undermining the Armed Forces, noting that such accusations in Nigeria often lead to the silencing of civil society voices through arrests or surveillance.

“Our advocacy is peaceful and lawful. We do not carry weapons. We speak for the victims. Any attempt to silence us must be seen as a violation of human rights,” the group asserted, calling for the protection of its members.

The coalition vowed to continue its mission to seek justice for communities affected by mass killings and abuses. It also acknowledged the arrest of suspects connected to the Yelwata massacre, where over 200 people were killed, describing the development as a critical step toward justice.

While commending the Nigeria Police Force for the arrests, the group emphasised that they must not serve as mere public relations gestures. “The victims of this genocide deserve justice that is seen, felt, and trusted,” it stated.

The coalition announced plans to collaborate with legal advocacy groups, human rights chambers, and pro bono partners to form a robust legal coalition to secure justice for the victims and their families. It pledged to provide legal aid, document testimonies, and offer emotional and legal support to survivors through its human rights desk.

“This case will be escalated to national and international human rights institutions, regional bodies like the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and relevant United Nations mechanisms to ensure global attention is sustained,” the coalition said.

It also committed to holding prosecuting agencies accountable to prevent trial delays or the denial of justice through weak charges or case withdrawals.