Red Cross Denies Allegations Of Supporting Armed Groups In Nigeria

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) have dismissed as false claims circulating on social media alleging that the organisation is supporting armed groups in Northern Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, the head of communications for the NRCS, Chima Nwankwo, described the allegations as misleading and harmful.

“The ICRC and NRCS are aware of social media content claiming that the Red Cross is supporting armed groups in Northern Nigeria. Both organisations categorically refute these claims, which are false,” he said.

Nwankwo warned that such misinformation contradicts the core principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and could undermine its humanitarian efforts.

“Misleading information of this nature can jeopardise our purely humanitarian work and deny thousands of vulnerable people access to vital aid,” he added.

He explained that the organisations remain committed to assisting vulnerable populations affected by crises, including armed conflict, while upholding the principles of neutrality, independence, transparency, and impartiality.

Nwankwo further clarified that although the ICRC engages in humanitarian dialogue with all parties in conflict situations when necessary, it does not provide any form of support—financial, logistical, or otherwise—to any group.

He also urged the public to verify information before sharing it, warning against the dangers of spreading unverified claims.