In my last analysis post, I advocated for the United States to allow ourselves into a less restrictive relationship with Nigeria, selling weapons to the country that would enable them to better combat terrorism. Now I’m advocating for another group to let bygones be bygones. In the past, Amnesty International has issued damning reports of human rights violations by the Nigerian military, including the deaths of thousands in captivity. When I first read about this, I firmly believed the AI reports were a good thing — I believe that all those who violate human rights must be held accountable. However, I now believe that Amnesty International needs to temporarily suspend all reports concerning the Nigerian military, as they are likely undermining efforts made by the Nigerian military to restore stability in the country.
If we balk at every instance of human rights violations, no truly constructive actions can be taken to combat terrorism, particularly in Africa where many of the governments fighting extremists are guilt of severe wrongdoings as well. The priority for African nations and all other nations involved in the fight against terrorism must be exactly that — fighting terrorism. They can’t afford to do damage control on behalf of Amnesty International or any other group. Boko Haram and other ISIS affiliates aren’t going to take a collective sick day so AI can pursue its interests. Furthermore, the expansion of ISIS into northern Africa with its newest branch ISIS-GS will only cause further instability and suffering. I have to reiterate that in the case of Nigeria, the U.S. must put the past behind it and work towards a stronger relationship with arguably the strongest anti-terror force in Africa today. There are many lives that will come to depend on the success of that effort.