Amnesty demands answers over unidentified bodies in Imo

Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to account for hundreds of unidentified bodies reportedly being moved from mortuaries in Imo State to unknown destinations.

The organisation said it was deeply concerned by reports that hundreds of unidentified bodies were being removed from mortuaries, including Ngor Okpala General Hospital, while bodies had also reportedly been seen at Mbieri General Hospital.

In a statement, Amnesty International said the authorities must urgently clarify the circumstances surrounding the bodies, their identities and the reasons for their movement.

It said videos obtained by the organisation showed the movement of bodies at night, adding that many of the bodies appeared to be at the skeletal stage and were found in large numbers.

“Imo State Government and relevant authorities must immediately account for all the bodies, establish their identities and causes of death, and explain when, where and how they came to be in the mortuaries and where they are now being taken,” said Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria.

Sanusi added that all bodies, mortuary records, medical records and other relevant evidence must be preserved to prevent interference with any investigation.

“Allegations that some of the deceased may have been victims of unlawful killings during security operations in Imo State must be promptly, independently and impartially investigated,” he said.

Amnesty International urged the authorities to ensure that the bodies were properly identified and subjected to appropriate forensic examinations, including autopsies where necessary.

It also called for families to be promptly informed and provided with information concerning their relatives.

The organisation warned that no body or evidence should be concealed, destroyed, disposed of or otherwise interfered with.

It further called for anyone suspected of criminal responsibility for unlawful killings or other human rights violations to be investigated and, where sufficient admissible evidence exists, prosecuted in fair proceedings.

“The families of those who died or disappeared have a right to know what happened to their loved ones. The authorities must act urgently to establish the truth, preserve evidence and ensure justice and accountability,” Amnesty International said.