The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for urgent action and justice for civilians reportedly killed by Nigerian Army personnel in the Abisari community, Borno State.

Kemi Okonyedo, a member of the NHRC Governing Council, highlighted this issue while presenting a report from an investigative panel that examined human rights violations during counter-insurgency operations in the North-East.

The report cleared the Nigerian military of allegations related to forced abortions but found credible evidence of deliberate killings of civilians in Abisari.

“These killings are serious violations of human rights,” Okonyedo stated. “The lives lost were real, families have been deeply affected, and the suffering of these communities must be acknowledged and addressed.”

She emphasized that the panel’s recommendations serve as a guide to address the issue, hold those responsible accountable, and prevent future violations. One key recommendation is providing compensation to the victims’ families and ensuring adequate reparations for the affected community.

The NHRC is urging the Federal Government to implement these recommendations swiftly. It insists that ensuring justice and accountability will rebuild trust between civilians and security forces while protecting human rights during military operations.

This situation is a strong reminder that all efforts to maintain security must respect the rights and dignity of the people being protected.