Nigerian Soldiers Face Allegations of Violence Against Civilians in Niger State
Reports have emerged detailing incidents where Nigerian soldiers burned homes and tortured civilians in rural Niger State during a military operation targeting bandits. Villagers, who had no knowledge of the bandits’ whereabouts, faced violence instead of protection. The situation raises serious concerns about the conduct of military forces and their impact on local communities already suffering from banditry.
On Friday, reports indicated that soldiers from the garrison town of Erena in Niger State burned down houses in Chikuba, allegedly belonging to a bandit named Dogo Gide. However, it has emerged that the houses belonged to innocent rural residents who also endured brutality during the soldiers’ operation. Dogo Gide’s gang has infamously terrorized communities across Niger, Kaduna, and Zamfara states, even being responsible for an attack on military aircraft in August 2023.
The military operation left behind devastation in nearby villages such as Makera, Kudodo, and Sabon Gida. Eyewitness accounts reveal that during the incursion, soldiers disrupted a wedding ceremony in Makera, demanding locals lead them to bandit hideouts. Victims reported severe beatings, with one individual stating, “They started beating everyone, including Dagbe Kudodo, the imam.”
Saddening testimonials emerged of wedding attendees who sustained injuries, with one person losing three teeth and another fainting from the torture. It was reported that soldiers confiscated phones from attendees and damaged the bride’s belongings. Villagers reported that soldiers suggested they buy guns instead of paying ransoms to the bandits, further complicating their situation.
After the violence in Makera, soldiers moved on to Chukuba village. Villagers had received warnings and fled before the military arrived. Upon reaching Chukuba, the soldiers reportedly opened fire indiscriminately before proceeding to raze down over 20 houses, destroying essential food supplies, which would further plunge the villagers into hunger.
Local leaders expressed concern over the deteriorating conditions caused by intertwining threats from bandits and military actions. On previous occasions, the Nigerian military’s operations have led to tragic civilian casualties, raising alarms about the accountability and conduct of security forces amidst local turmoil.
The International Criminal Court is investigating allegations of such crimes by Nigerian security forces, while the current government has sought to halt these inquiries, arguing they undermine troop morale. The response from government officials regarding the latest incident has been lacking, drawing criticism. The Niger State Human Rights Commission has committed to conducting an independent investigation to seek justice for the victims.
The reported military actions in Niger State have highlighted serious human rights concerns, as innocent civilians suffer violence and property destruction under the guise of combating banditry. As communities face compounded crises due to military invasions and ongoing banditry, accountability and protection for the populace remain pressing issues. Local leaders and human rights institutions are advocating for justice and support amidst growing hardships for affected residents.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
