In the midst of ongoing violence attributed to herdsmen in Ebonyi State, residents have begun to voice serious concerns about the role of security forces in the region. According to testimonies from community members, army personnel have been reportedly seizing mobile phones from locals and preventing them from documenting the violence through videos. This has raised alarm among human rights groups, locals, and activists, who are now questioning the transparency and accountability of the military’s actions during these critical times.
The Situation in Ebonyi State
The persistent attacks by herdsmen in several communities within Ebonyi State have left numerous people dead and many more displaced. These violent clashes between herdsmen and local farmers, which have escalated over the years, have now resulted in a tense atmosphere where fear and distrust permeate the air.
In response to the increasing insecurity, the Nigerian military has been deployed in certain areas to restore peace and order. However, reports are emerging that the very soldiers who are supposed to protect the locals are allegedly obstructing their ability to document these incidents.
Allegations of Phone Seizure and Prevention of Video Recording
Several residents of Ebonyi have accused military personnel of seizing their phones and stopping them from taking videos of the ongoing killings and violence. According to eyewitness accounts, the army, in some cases, would approach individuals with mobile phones in hand, demanding that they hand over the devices. In some instances, they would delete any footage that had been captured, citing security reasons and a need to avoid the spread of misinformation.
This practice of curbing the documentation of violence is a growing concern among citizens, human rights organizations, and journalists. The inability to record or share video evidence of the violence not only limits the public’s awareness but also hinders accountability, especially in cases where the army’s conduct might be called into question.
