The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged accountability for significant human rights violations committed during military counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria’s Northeast, emphasizing justice for victims and compensation for affected families.
At the opening of the Civil-Military Forum on the findings of the Special Independent Investigative Panel (SIIP) on Human Rights Violations in Counter-Insurgency Operations, NHRC Chairperson Dr. Salamatu Husseini Suleiman, represented by board member Kemi Asiwaju-Okenyodo, highlighted the need for reforms and accountability.
While rejecting allegations of systematic forced abortions linked to the military, as previously reported by Reuters, the Commission noted confirmed incidents such as the killing of civilians in Abisari, Borno State, which it described as a “grave violation.”
Key Recommendations
The SIIP proposed critical measures, including:
- Compensation: The Federal Government should provide reparations to victims of the Abisari killings and their families.
- Prosecution: Perpetrators should face justice through court-martial or referral to the Attorney General of the Federation for legal action.
- Military Reforms: Strengthened accountability mechanisms, improved human rights training, and civilian protection standards should be prioritized.
Suleiman emphasized that these recommendations aim to not only address past abuses but also ensure a military culture that respects human rights. “These are real lives and families whose suffering must be acknowledged,” she stated.
Commitment to Change
Dr. Tony Ojukwu, NHRC Executive Secretary, reiterated the Commission’s dedication to fostering collaboration between the military and human rights organizations. He emphasized that the forum was designed to discuss actionable steps to implement the panel’s findings and prevent future violations.
Ojukwu added, “Our goal is a military capable of protecting the nation while upholding the dignity and rights of civilians, especially in conflict zones.”
The NHRC reaffirmed its resolve to promote justice, accountability, and a future where human rights are central to Nigeria’s military operations.
