Allamin Foundation for Peace and Development has organised a one-day capacity-building workshop for members of its Jire Dole Network on basic reporting and documentation of human rights violations in society.
The training workshop, held on Saturday at the Hajja Mangal Memorial Banquet Hall, Allamin Foundation Office, GRA Maiduguri, was facilitated by Dr. Mohammed Abdullahi of the University of Maiduguri, who served as the resource person.
Speaking during the session, Dr. Abdullahi explained that the workshop became necessary due to the critical nature of fieldwork involving the collection of statistical data and other relevant information from targeted groups, particularly victims and survivors of the Boko Haram insurgency.
According to him, “the workshop became necessary and crucial due to importance attached to the field work relating to collection and gathering of statistical data and other relevant information from the targeted groups who are victims and survivors of the Boko Haram insurgency.”
He further noted that the sensitive nature and confidentiality of the information being collected require proper procedures and professional handling.
“Because of the nature, confidentiality, content and value of the kinds of data or information to be collected, processes and procedures required. It became very vital for the members to be trained and exposed to the basic needs, requirements, specific information, types, formats and outcomes among others in handling and conducting the interviews,” he added.
Dr. Abdullahi emphasised that when interviewing survivors and witnesses of conflict, participants must create a safe and private environment, show patience and respect, and avoid asking leading questions or rushing interviewees.
“When Interviewing Survivors and Witnesses of conflict, there is need to create a safe and private environment by the members and to be respectful and patient while asking open-ended questions and not to pressure or rush interviewees as well avoid re-traumatization or Stop the interview, if the person is uncomfortable,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of a step-by-step documentation process, stressing that information gathered must be properly identified, documented, and submitted to appropriate authorities.
The facilitator further advised participants to ensure their safety and that of victims, obtain consent before interviews, fill reporting forms accurately, verify information, and properly document all relevant details.
He maintained that accurate recording of information is crucial, urging participants to avoid assumptions and write words exactly as provided by interviewees.
“Recording Information Properly, Writing words exactly where possible and avoid assumptions or self conclusions, use simple and clear language, Record dates, times, and locations accurately by not leaving blank spaces,” he explained.
Dr. Abdullahi also urged members to ask the right questions and allow survivors to narrate their experiences freely.
“Ask them to describe what happened, let the survivors tell their story in their own words and clarify gently when needed while avoiding missing key details like date, location, names and mixing facts with personal opinions,” he advised.
He further explained that after documentation, reports should be submitted through designated channels, including the organisation, relevant authorities, and trusted partners, while ensuring quality checks before submission.
According to him, “reporting Pathways after documentation your organization, relevant authorities, trusted partners, follow agreed reporting channels and timelines as well carry out quality check before you submit your report by asking yourself: is the information complete? Is it clear and accurate? Are there any assumptions? Is the form properly filled?”
Dr. Abdullahi noted that proper reporting is essential as it enables quick response and support, helps prevent further violations, strengthens accountability mechanisms, and ensures that data collected is useful for advocacy and protection.
He also warned participants against common mistakes such as writing vague statements, using unclear phrases, and failing to describe incidents accurately.
The resource person encouraged participants to remain objective and avoid mixing facts with personal opinions or assumptions.
He further cautioned against asking leading questions that may influence survivors’ responses, urging participants to listen carefully and allow victims to tell their stories in their own words.
The workshop forms part of Allamin Foundation’s ongoing efforts to strengthen community-based documentation and support mechanisms for victims and survivors of conflict in North-East Nigeria.
