The Amnesty International [AI] has described the deployment of soldiers in Afara Ukwu, Umuahia in Abia State ahead of the burial of the parents of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra [IPOB], as worrisome.

AI said the military and the police must deescalate the rising tension in Afara Ukwu and ensure that the protection of human rights of people in the community, ahead of the burial on February 14, 2020.

“There is reported heavy military presence in Afara Ukwu, a community in Abia state as soldiers patrol the area. The funeral program of IPOB leader, Eze Okwu Kanu, and his wife who died recently will take place there on February 14,” a statement by AI’ Country Director, Osai Ojigho, read in part.

“Eyewitnesses told Amnesty International that they saw several military vehicles including Hilux and military SUVs patrolling the community since Sunday February 2, 2020.

“The Nigerian security forces must exercise restraint and prevent a repetition of the September 2017 events that left at least 20 people killed and some still missing, when the military attempted to arrest Nnamdi Kanu in his home in Afara Ukwu.”

The organisation said while law enforcement officers are within their rights to carry out their lawful duties, the use of force should be proportional and strictly limited to those situations where it is absolutely necessary.

“Both IPOB supporters and security forces must at all times respect and protect human rights of all,” it said.

Five people told AI that they saw soldiers harassing people at Bank road while another man said he was prevented from going to his house by soldiers who blocked the road entrance to Eze Kanu’s palace on February 3.

“Concerns about possible violence during the funeral must be addressed within the framework of human rights and rule of law,” said Osai Ojigho.