The NHRC has cleared the Nigerian army of serious allegations, including forced abortions and mass killings of children. After an 18-month investigation linked to a 2022 Reuters report, the commission found no evidence of illegal military actions, although they did identify some unlawful killings in specific cases. This highlights the ongoing complexities of human rights in the context of the Boko Haram insurgency.
In a long-awaited verdict, Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has cleared the military of serious allegations, including forced abortions and mass killings of children in the northeastern region. This decision comes after an extensive 18-month investigation prompted by a 2022 Reuters report. The commission found no substantiated evidence to support the claims that the armed forces conducted forced abortions or indiscriminately killed children suspected of terrorist ties. Instead, they suggested that NGOs like Médecins Sans Frontières have been involved in abortion procedures under their care in the region. However, while absolving the military of most charges, the panel did confirm instances of infanticide and unlawful killings in certain areas like Abisare, highlighting the complexities in the ongoing strife against Boko Haram and its repercussions on civilian life.
For over a decade, the Boko Haram insurgency has wreaked havoc in northeastern Nigeria, displacing millions and causing thousands of fatalities. Amidst this turbulence, allegations against the Nigerian military have emerged, questioning their adherence to human rights during counter-insurgency measures. The NHRC was formed to investigate these claims in response to growing national and international scrutiny, aiming to clarify the extent of military conduct under the shadows of war and violence that have consumed the region.
In summary, the NHRC’s findings bring a nuanced perspective to the accusations against the Nigerian military, suggesting that while many of the allegations are unfounded, there are still troubling instances of unlawful killings that need addressing. As Nigeria grapples with the harrowing realities of the Boko Haram conflict, accountability and transparency remain crucial for rebuilding trust between the military and the communities they serve.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
