The Nigeria Chapter of the International Human Rights Commission Rescue for the Future (IHRC-RFT) has expressed concern over plans to close markets in Yobe and Borno states due to fears of possible bomb attacks.
The organisation warned that such actions could worsen economic hardship and deepen poverty in the region.
In a statement signed by its Country Director, Amb.
Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, IHRC-RFT acknowledged the need to protect lives and property but stressed that indefinite closure of markets is not a long-term solution to insecurity.
“We commend the intention behind the closures, which are to protect lives, but shutting down markets only intensifies poverty and fails to address the core issues of insecurity,” the statement read.
The organisation urged the authorities to focus on practical security upgrades at market locations.
These include installing modern scanning tools, deploying CCTV surveillance, positioning trained security personnel, and using sniffer dogs at key access points.
IHRC-RFT also encouraged increased investment in intelligence operations and stronger ties between security agencies and local communities to detect threats before they occur.
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The group said more public education is needed. It asked security forces to run awareness campaigns aimed at teaching traders and residents how to spot and report suspicious activity.
“Thousands of Nigerians depend on daily trade for survival. Shutting down markets not only disrupts livelihoods but violates basic human rights,” Amb. Adamu stated, referencing Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which protects the right to life and security, as well as Article 23, which guarantees the right to work and earn a living.
IHRC-RFT called for a people-focused security model that encourages cooperation between police and communities, allowing for better trust and faster response to warning signs.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to working with government bodies and local groups by offering training, advocacy, and technical support.
“We call on all stakeholders to handle this issue with empathy and foresight. Security is essential, but it must not come at the expense of livelihoods,” the statement added.