Our Correspondent
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has vehemently denied allegations made by Amnesty International that over 10,000 civilians have died in military detention facilities since the start of the Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria’s North East.
The DHQ described the allegations as “shocking, lacking in merit, and mischievous,” emphasizing that the Nigerian military operates within the dictates of international humanitarian law and the laws of armed conflicts.
The Director, Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Major General Edward Buba disclosed this in a press statement in Abuja on Friday.
The military clarified that suspects arrested during operations are subjected to thorough profiling before being handed over to the appropriate agencies for prosecution or release.
Additionally, the DHQ highlighted the existence of standing court-martials in operational theatres to address any unethical conduct by military personnel swiftly.
In response to Amnesty International’s claims, the DHQ invited the organization to provide detailed evidence to substantiate its allegations, enabling the military to conduct an inquiry into the claims.
He said though the Armed Forces is not willing to join words with Amnesty International, it is of utmost necessity to set the records straight.
“The military reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and global best practices in fulfilling its constitutional duties.
“Though the operational environment has been complex and challenging, troops have painstakingly abide by the rules of engagement to extensively avoid civilian casualties in whatever shape or form.
“Additionally, whenever arrests are made , suspects are profiled, after which the suspects are handed over to the appropriate agency for release or prosecution.
“As a deterrence to unethical conducts, there are standing court martial within the operational theatres to ensure justice is immediately administered to any erring personnel during operations.
“Overall, It is necessary to reiterate that the armed forces under the able leadership of the CDS, General Christopher Musa, remain professional in carrying out its constitutional mandates in line with global best practices.
“On the whole, the armed forces invite Amnesty International to substantiate the details of the allegations.
“This would enable the military to conduct an inquiry in order to determine the authenticity or otherwise of the made allegations.
