The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reacted to recent allegations by Amnesty International regarding human rights abuses in the country’s North-East region. Amnesty International claimed that over 10,000 people have died in military custody since the start of the Boko Haram insurgency.
During a press conference, Amnesty International’s Country Director, Isa Sanusi, announced that the organization had taken the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague. According to Sanusi, the case accuses the Nigerian military of committing crimes against humanity.
In response, Major General Buba Edward, the Director of Defence Media Operations, dismissed the allegations and defended the military’s professionalism. He stated that when arrests are made, suspects undergo a detailed profiling process before being handed over to relevant agencies for release or prosecution.
Buba also highlighted that measures are in place to prevent unethical behavior among military personnel. Standing court-martials operate in various operational areas to ensure that any soldier found guilty of misconduct faces appropriate consequences.
He said, “The armed forces views the pronouncements by Amnesty International as shocking, lacking in merit as well as mischievous, particularly as it coming at this ending cycle stage of the counter terrorism war in the NE.
“Though the Armed Forces is not willing to join words with Amnesty International, it is of utmost necessity to set the records straight. The Nigerian military is a professional forces which conducts its operations within the dictates of international humanitarian law and the laws of armed conflicts.
“Though the operational environment has been complex and challenging, troop have painstakingly abide by the rules of engagement to extensively avoided civilian casualties in whatever shape or form. Additionally, whenever arrest are made , suspects are profiled, after which the suspects are handed over to the appropriate agency for release or prosecution.”
While refuting Amnesty International’s claims, the DHQ stated it is willing to investigate the accusations if the organization provides credible evidence. According to Buba, this will help determine the authenticity of the allegations.
“Overall, It is necessary to reiterate that the armed forces under the able leadership of the CDS, General Christopher Musa, remains professional in carrying out its constitutional mandates in line with global best practices,” he added.
The military reiterated its commitment to upholding justice and called on Amnesty International to avoid making unverified accusations. The DHQ emphasized the importance of evidence-based claims, especially when they involve serious issues like crimes against humanity.
“Overall, It is necessary to reiterate that the armed forces under the able leadership of the CDS, General Christopher Musa, remains professional in carrying out its constitutional mandates in line with global best practices,” he added.
This exchange underscores the need for transparency and accountability while addressing the challenges of the Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East.
