Respect your rules of engagement, Human Rights Commission tells Military

THE National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday said it will collaborate with the Nigerian Police and other relevant authorities to ensure a timely and thorough investigation of the alleged invasion of parts of South East and South South geopolitical zones of the country by the Nigerian Military.

A statement by the Commission said the allegations will be investigated with a view to ensuring that informed decisions are made and appropriate steps taken to have the culprits punished and victims redressed in accordance with the law.

The Acting Executive Secretary of the Commission, Mrs Oti Ovrawah urged the military to respect their rules of engagement.

The NHRC was reacting to media reports on allegations by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia state chapter that Nigerian Soldiers on Operation Python Dance II attacked them amidst other claims of human rights violations.

The Ag Chief Executive Officer of the Commission called on civilians and security agencies, particularly the military to desist from any act capable of causing tension, public disturbance, fear and sense of insecurity and to always respect the fundamental rights of all citizens.

Meanwhile, the Commission commends the government of Abia state for the steps taken so far to remove fear and forestall further breakdown of law and order saying that it is important to reinforce people’s confidence in the ability of the government to protect them without violation of their rights.

She also called on the Nigerian military to leverage on the series of training the Commission has offered them on mainstreaming human rights into their operations, especially with the emerging human rights challenges.

The NHRC boss added that, “the military are expected to carry out their duties according to international best practices”.