We are tracking 17,000 missing persons in Nigeria – ICRC

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) disclosed that it is monitoring approximately 17,000 missing persons cases in Nigeria. This information was shared during a meeting with Media Trust officials, where the ICRC discussed its humanitarian efforts and potential collaborations with the media. Aliyu Dawobe, the ICRC's Public Relations Officer, revealed that the organization has been expanding its operations to Sokoto State due to the escalating humanitarian requirements in the North-West region.

Usman Kundili, the ICRC's Communication Officer, further clarified that globally, the ICRC has documented over 248,000 missing persons cases. However, Nigeria accounts for about 17,000 of these active cases. The majority of these individuals have been missing for lengthy periods, causing significant emotional, psychological, and financial hardships for their families. Many families have remained uncertain about their loved ones' whereabouts for years, leading to enduring challenges in their lives.

Kundili emphasized that the consequences of missing persons extend beyond the affected individuals, particularly when these missing individuals were the primary breadwinners for their families. In response to this issue, the ICRC offers livelihood assistance to affected families through cash support to start small businesses, replace lost livestock, and restore their sources of income.

He highlighted the emotional and financial toll these situations take on families, with one poignant example being a mother who has been unable to sleep peacefully for 10 years due to the absence of her child.

The ICRC's Communication Officer stressed that the problem of missing persons is a critical humanitarian concern that necessitates continuous public awareness and stronger actions from relevant authorities. He urged for heightened respect for International Humanitarian Law (IHL), which outlines rules to safeguard civilians and others impacted by armed conflicts.

Kundili explained that the ICRC engages with various armed actors, including military forces and other relevant authorities, to promote adherence to humanitarian principles and prevent violations against civilians. He clarified that the ICRC's neutrality is frequently misinterpreted, emphasizing that it does not favor any side in conflicts but works with all parties to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those in need.

Kundili also mentioned that the ICRC maintains confidential bilateral dialogues with conflicting parties when there are indications of potential IHL violations, aiming to avert further harm instead of publicly assigning blame.