Emmanuel Daudu
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly dismissed allegations made by Amnesty International during a press conference on December 5, 2024.
The organization claimed that over 10,000 civilians have died in Nigerian military detention facilities since the onset of the Boko Haram insurgency in the North East.
In a statement issued by Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, the Nigerian Armed Forces described the allegations as “shocking, lacking merit, and mischievous,” particularly as they come during a critical phase in the counter-terrorism campaign in the region.
“The Nigerian military is a professional force that conducts its operations in strict compliance with international humanitarian law and the laws of armed conflict,” the statement read.
Despite the complex and challenging operational environment, the military emphasized its commitment to minimizing civilian casualties and following established procedures for the profiling and handover of suspects to appropriate agencies for release or prosecution.
As a deterrent to unethical behavior, the military noted the presence of standing court martials in operational theaters to promptly address any misconduct among personnel.
Under the leadership of Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the Armed Forces reaffirmed their professionalism and adherence to global best practices in executing their constitutional mandates.
The military has invited Amnesty International to provide evidence to substantiate its claims, stressing that such details are necessary for an inquiry to determine the authenticity of the allegations.
Major Buba reiterated the Armed Forces’ firm rejection of what it termed “spurious” accusations, while maintaining their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and rights of civilians during operations.
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