Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian government to protect the people from violence before, during and after the coming general elections.

Ahead of the polls scheduled for February 16 and March 2, the human rights organisation also called for the full respect for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association.

It said there have been several instances of violence at election campaign rallies in some states, including the deaths of four people in clashes between rival political supporters in Kano State in December 2018.

“The election-related violence in states such as Kano, Kwara, Kogi, Rivers, Taraba and Bayelsa is deeply troubling and, if not urgently addressed, will undermine respect for human rights throughout the election period,” Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Osai Ojigho, said in a statement on Wednesday.

She added, “Amnesty International has received reports of supporters of some politicians violently targeting political opponents, real or perceived.

“The authorities must stamp out any potential impunity by ensuring these incidents are investigated and that those suspected to be responsible are brought to justice.”

•Sourced from a Channels TV report