Amnesty International Backs Inquiry Into Military Human Rights Violations

After the Nigerian military announced that it will set up an inquiry into human rights violations committed by members of the army, Amnesty International Nigeria’s Interim Director Makmid Kamara expressed support.

“This commitment from the Nigerian army to investigate human rights violations carried out by military personnel is encouraging.

“With our research showing that members of the Nigerian security forces continue to commit serious violations including extrajudicial executions, enforced disappearances, torture and other ill-treatment, such an investigation is sorely needed.

“The military’s announcement indicates its willingness to bring those responsible for such violations to account, and deliver justice for the many victims.

“While this is clearly a positive step, Amnesty International repeats its long-standing recommendation that any inquiry into human rights violations by the Nigerian army should be independent of the military, impartial and thorough, and its findings made public.

“All members of the military suspected of criminal responsibility, including for crimes under international law, should be brought to justice in fair trials before civilian courts without recourse to the death penalty.”