NHRC Advocates Civilian Protection as Crucial Element in Nigeria's Counter-Terrorism Efforts

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a stark warning regarding Nigeria's deteriorating security situation, emphasizing the risk of persistent violence unless the safeguarding of civilians is made the central focus of all military and security actions.

In a recent statement, the commission's Executive Secretary, Tony Ojukwu, extended his sympathies to the Nigerian Armed Forces, as well as the governments and citizens of states severely impacted by the ongoing crisis.

These affected regions include Borno, Niger, Benue, Kaduna, Kwara, Sokoto, and Plateau, where communities have recently endured significant attacks.

The commission conveyed profound concern over what it termed a dangerous increase in the frequency and sophistication of assaults, which are now targeting not only military installations but also civilian areas such as markets, places of worship, and public buildings.

Particularly alarming are the meticulously planned attacks on military bases in the Northeast and suicide bombings occurring in civilian settings, including in Maiduguri.

Ojukwu characterized these acts of violence as a "systematic assault" on fundamental human rights, asserting that they violate the protections guaranteed by Nigeria's constitution and international agreements like the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

He firmly stated that the deliberate targeting of civilians and security personnel by non-state armed groups represents severe violations of international humanitarian law.

The NHRC cautioned that the current trend of violence—which includes coordinated assaults, suicide attacks, and its expansion from the Northeast into the Northwest and North-Central regions—indicates a more complex and deeply rooted phase of insecurity that necessitates an immediate reassessment of national strategies.

While the report does not contain further details from the original author bylines or additional publisher information, it highlights the critical need for a shift in focus towards civilian safety in Nigeria's fight against terrorism.