Aid group reports widespread sexual violence and abuse in camps near Nigeria’s border, urges urgent international response

A recent investigation by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has revealed alarming levels of exploitation and sexual abuse targeting women and girls living in refugee camps in Chad, close to Nigeria’s North-East border. The findings were released on Saturday, highlighting the urgent need for protection measures as humanitarian agencies continue to respond to the ongoing crisis in the region.

According to MSF, the situation in these camps has deteriorated significantly due to overcrowding, lack of security, and insufficient resources. The report documents multiple cases where women and adolescent girls were subjected to sexual violence, including rape and forced transactional sex, as they attempted to access basic needs such as food and water. Many victims reportedly suffered both physical injuries and severe psychological trauma.

The camps house thousands of people who have fled violence and instability from neighbouring countries, including Nigeria’s Borno State, where Boko Haram attacks have displaced millions over the past decade. Humanitarian workers say that the majority of refugees are women and children who remain especially vulnerable due to breakdowns in social structures and limited law enforcement presence within the settlements.

MSF called on local authorities, international donors, and United Nations agencies to scale up interventions focused on security, mental health support, and provision of essential services. “It is crucial that all stakeholders act now to prevent further exploitation,” the organisation stated in its findings. There was no immediate response from Chadian officials or Nigerian authorities regarding the report as at press time.

Aid groups warn that without increased funding and coordinated action from governments across the Lake Chad Basin—including Nigeria—risks faced by displaced women and girls will persist. MSF said it plans to expand medical outreach programmes while continuing advocacy for stronger protection mechanisms in all affected areas.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/887444-msf-investigation-finds-exploitation-of-women-girls-in-chad-refugee-camps.html

Organisation warns demonstrators to vacate premises immediately, citing security concerns after recent Abuja protest

A prominent group in Abuja has issued a stern warning to protesters who recently occupied its headquarters, threatening to take legal action if the demonstrators do not vacate the premises without delay. The incident took place at the organisation’s Abuja office on Saturday, 13 June 2026, drawing attention to rising tensions around property rights and protest activities in the Federal Capital Territory.

Witnesses reported that a number of protesters stormed the group’s headquarters in Abuja, staging a sit-in and making various demands. Security personnel were seen monitoring the situation as the demonstration continued for several hours before dispersing. The group, whose name was not disclosed at press time, described the occupation as unlawful and disruptive to its operations.

The group’s management stated that such actions pose significant risks to staff safety and could escalate into further confrontations. They emphasised that while peaceful assembly is a constitutional right, trespassing on private property violates Nigerian law and would not be tolerated. The leadership called on relevant authorities to intervene if the protesters refuse to leave voluntarily.

In a statement released after the incident, group officials said they were prepared to pursue all available legal remedies to protect their interests. “We will not hesitate to seek redress in court if this illegal occupation persists,” the statement read. Efforts to reach representatives of the protest group for comment were unsuccessful as at press time.

The Abuja police command has yet to issue an official response regarding possible investigations or enforcement measures. The situation highlights ongoing debates about balancing civic activism with respect for legal boundaries in Nigeria’s capital city.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/887432-group-threatens-legal-action-against-protesters-who-occupied-its-abuja-headquarters.html

Governor Radda confirms security agencies’ failed rescue efforts as state mourns loss of former Defence Information Director

Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, former Director of Defence Information, has died while being held captive by armed men in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. The incident occurred after the senior officer was abducted with his wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, near Zakin Baure village along the Marabar Musawa-Kafinsoli road. His death was confirmed on Thursday by Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda and the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Muazu.

According to official accounts, Abubakar and his wife were kidnapped several weeks ago while travelling with their driver, Abdullahi Sa’idu. The driver managed to escape despite sustaining a gunshot wound. Security agencies and the state government launched extensive efforts to secure their release, but these proved unsuccessful. The retired general reportedly died in captivity from complications related to diabetes and hypertension.

The abduction and subsequent death of General Abubakar has further highlighted persistent security challenges in Katsina State and across the North-West region. Matazu LGA, where the incident took place, has witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups targeting commuters and residents in recent years. The government described the situation as a national tragedy and a dark moment for both the state and Nigeria at large.

In a statement, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed deep sorrow over the development, extending condolences to the late officer’s family and the wider Nigerian military community. “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity. Despite relentless and concerted efforts by the State Government and various security agencies to secure his safe release, this tragedy could not be prevented,” Dr. Nasiru Muazu said on behalf of the state government.

The family of the deceased confirmed that their vehicle—a red Peugeot 504 assigned to Major General Abubakar—was recovered by police at Matazu Divisional Headquarters after the incident. As at press time, security agencies have intensified patrols in affected areas while reiterating calls for greater collaboration among stakeholders to tackle insecurity in Katsina State.

The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment on Thursday evening.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/abducted-army-general-abubakar-rabe-dies-in-captivity-after-weeks-of-being-held-by-bandits-2026061317225131709