By Joy Odor
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has on Monday unequivocally debunked the allegations made by Amnesty International in its recent report at a conference launched on June 10, 2024 in Abuja, affirming that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) operates within the bounds of the law of armed conflict and has a robust military justice system to address any proven cases of misconduct.
In a press statement made available to newsmen in Abuja by Major General Edward Buba, the Director Defence Media Operations (DDMO) the AFN made it open that, it is a professional force that operates within the ambit of international law of armed conflict as well as adheres to the humanitarian law and principles governing human rights.
Gen Buba noted that the military remains focused on its objective of defeating terrorism and will not be deterred by self-serving statements aimed at dampening the morale of troops in operational theatres.
The DDMO informed that it is for this reason that, there are standing court martials to treat any form of misbehaviour by erring personnel especially those that portray the military negatively to the general populace.
He maintained that under the leadership of General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the AFN has a zero-tolerance policy for indiscipline and improper conduct.
According to him, standing Court Martials are in place to address any form of misbehavior by erring personnel, ensuring that the military maintains its professionalism and integrity.
Gen Buba opined that the AFN would engage constructively with Amnesty International and continue to conduct operations diligently to protect the nation.
He disclosed that the military called on organizations like Amnesty International to substantiate their allegations through established channels, rather than resorting to public statements.
