Victor EzejaThe Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has warned against any attempt to target innocent civilians, especially youths in Southeast by the Nigerian military following the killing of five soldiers on Thursday by gunmen suspected to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
While confirming the killing of five soldiers during the attack, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, in a statement released on Friday, said the military has commenced investigation into the incident. He added that military would retaliate in a fierce manner to ensure that the group responsible for the attack is defeated.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn a press statement, signed by its national coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA condemned the brutal murder of the soldiers at the Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Aba and extended its condolences to the families of the fallen troops. The association acknowledged the military’s right and duty to protect its personnel.
Reacting to statement by the military, HURIWA however insisted that while the perpetrators of this heinous act must be brought to justice, the military must ensure that innocent Igbo youths are not targeted in the ensuing operations.
The civil rights advocacy group stressed that such operations must be conducted within the bounds of the law and human rights principles.
It said: “The killing of soldiers is a grave and unacceptable act of violence that demands a response. However, it is imperative that this response is measured, targeted, and avoids collateral damage, particularly to innocent civilians. We cannot allow the tragic loss of our soldiers to justify further loss of innocent lives.”
The association warned against the potential for a humanitarian crisis if the military engages in indiscriminate retaliation, stating that past experiences have shown that broad military actions in civilian areas can lead to widespread suffering and displacement.
HURIWA stressed that the Southeast region is already experiencing significant tensions, adding that any heavy-handed military response could exacerbate the situation.
“History has taught us that collective punishment is not only ineffective but also counterproductive. It breeds resentment and alienation among the population whose support is crucial in combating insurgent groups. The military must focus on precision and intelligence-driven operations to apprehend the actual perpetrators,” Onwubiko stated.
HURIWA further pointed out that Nigeria is a country governed by law, not a banana republic where extrajudicial actions are tolerated, stressing that the military must operate within the framework of national and international law, ensuring that any actions taken are lawful and justifiable.
“It is unlawful to go on a killing spree as retaliation for the murder of soldiers. Our military should not mirror the lawlessness of those they are fighting against,” Onwubiko asserted.
“The rule of law must prevail. Suspects must be apprehended, tried, and prosecuted following the law. This is the only way to ensure justice and maintain the moral high ground.”
HURIWA also called on the Nigerian government to ensure proper oversight of military operations in the Southeast, including setting up independent monitoring bodies to investigate any allegations of human rights abuses promptly. Such measures, he argued, are essential to maintaining public trust and ensuring that the military’s actions are effective and ethical.
“We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the military high command to institute mechanisms for accountability,” Onwubiko urged, adding that “Any soldier found guilty of committing human rights abuses must be held accountable. This is essential to uphold the integrity of our armed forces and the trust of the Nigerian people.”
Military collaboration with Local communities
The human rights group also underscored the importance of engaging with local communities to gain their support and cooperation, noting that winning the war against insurgency requires the collaboration of the people, who can provide critical intelligence and support to the security forces.
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“The lifeline of the terrorists is the people, and their support is crucial,” Onwubiko explained. “The military must work to build trust with the communities, ensuring they feel protected rather than persecuted. This can be achieved through community engagement, transparency, and respect for human rights.”
HURIWA reiterated its commitment to advocating human rights and justice in Nigeria. While condemning the brutal killing of soldiers, the association firmly opposed any retaliatory actions that could harm innocent civilians, stressing that the military must ensure that their operations are precise, lawful, and focused on bringing the actual perpetrators to justice.
“The path to justice and peace must be paved with respect for human rights and the rule of law,” Onwubiko concluded. “We call on the military to act with caution and precision, ensuring that innocent lives are protected. Only through lawful and just actions can we achieve true justice and lasting peace in Nigeria.”
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
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