NHRC Demands Explanation from Nigerian Air Force Over Civilian Casualties

The National Human Rights Commission has demanded explanations from the Nigerian Air Force over recurring civilian casualties arising from military airstrikes in parts of the country. The commission describes these incidents as disturbing and inconsistent with human rights and international humanitarian law standards.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, the Executive Secretary of the commission, Dr Tony Ojukwu, said that although the fight against insurgency and banditry remains a legitimate responsibility of the state, military operations must comply with constitutional and international legal obligations. He didn't say the state can't protect itself, but it must do so within the law.

Dr Tony Ojukwu expressed concern over repeated reports of civilian deaths and injuries, including women and children, during aerial bombardments in conflict-affected communities. He specifically referenced reported casualties from airstrikes at Jilli Market in Yobe State, Shiroro Market in Niger State, and Tumfa Market in Zamfara State.

“Nigerians deserve to know why this has become a recurring problem.

In April and May alone, we've recorded the following casualties: in April, Jilli market in Yobe, in May, Shiroro market in Niger, and again in May, Tumfa market in Zamfara. For how long will this continue?” he asked.

The NHRC chief stressed that the principles of distinction, necessity, proportionality, and accountability must guide military engagements, particularly in areas populated by civilians. He warned that civilian lives should never be treated as collateral damage. He urged security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, operational safeguards, and accountability mechanisms to minimize harm to non-combatants.

Dr Ojukwu also called for “prompt, transparent, and independent investigations into all reported incidents of civilian casualties resulting from airstrikes,” to ensure accountability, justice for victims, and adequate remedies. These remedies include compensation and psychosocial support for affected families and communities.

The commission further maintained that national security objectives and human rights protection aren't mutually exclusive. It said public trust and sustainable peace can only be achieved where security operations are carried out within the bounds of legality, accountability, and respect for human dignity.

And in April, military airstrikes reportedly hit Jilli Market in Yobe State, during operations against suspected Boko Haram fighters. Residents and rights groups claimed scores of civilians were killed, although casualty figures varied. The NAF acknowledged the operation and later announced an investigation into allegations of civilian deaths.

A similar airstrike had allegedly also resulted in the death of civilians at Shiroro Market in Niger State early in May. While details of the incident remain limited, Shiroro has witnessed repeated military operations against bandits and insurgents.

A recent incident at Tumfa Market in Zamfara State on May 10 had raised fresh concerns against the Air Force, with Amnesty International alleging that about 100 civilians were killed during an airstrike targeting bandits. The Defence Headquarters again confirmed the operation, but denied evidence of civilian casualties, insisting the strike was intelligence-driven and directed at criminal elements.

The National Human Rights Commission's query to the Nigerian Air Force is a significant development because it highlights the need for the military to ensure that its operations are conducted in accordance with international humanitarian law and human rights standards. This development is significant because it emphasizes the importance of protecting civilians during military operations.

As the commission has stated, the principles of distinction, necessity, proportionality, and accountability must guide military engagements, particularly in areas populated by civilians. This means that the military must take all feasible precautions to avoid or minimize harm to civilians and civilian objects. It must distinguish between military targets and civilians.

The commission's call for prompt, transparent, and independent investigations into all reported incidents of civilian casualties resulting from airstrikes is also crucial. This will help ensure accountability, justice for victims, and adequate remedies. These remedies include compensation and psychosocial support for affected families and communities.

In the context of the ongoing conflict in Nigeria, the issue of civilian casualties is critical. The conflict has resulted in significant human suffering, with thousands of people killed, injured, or displaced. The Nigerian government has a responsibility to protect its citizens and ensure that its military operations are conducted in accordance with international humanitarian law and human rights standards.

The National Human Rights Commission's query to the Nigerian Air Force is an important step towards addressing the issue of civilian casualties in military operations. It highlights the need for the military to ensure that its operations are conducted in accordance with international humanitarian law and human rights standards. The government must take concrete steps to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.

The Nigerian government can't ignore the issue of civilian casualties. It must take action to prevent them and to hold those responsible accountable. This is essential for building trust and achieving sustainable peace.