NHRC Demands Answers From Nigerian Air Force Over Repeated Civilian Death Reports in Airstrikes

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a strong call to the Nigerian Air Force to provide urgent explanations regarding a series of reported airstrikes that have allegedly resulted in civilian deaths across various parts of the country, expressing deep concern over what it described as a disturbing and recurring pattern of incidents.

NHRC Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu stated that the commission is growing increasingly alarmed by repeated reports of civilian casualties during military aerial operations conducted as part of counter-insurgency and anti-banditry efforts.

While acknowledging the government's responsibility to tackle insecurity, he emphasized that all military operations must be conducted within the boundaries of the law and in accordance with international humanitarian standards designed to protect civilian lives.

Ojukwu pointed out that reports of women, children, and other vulnerable individuals being killed or injured in airstrikes suggest possible violations of the right to life and human dignity concerns he said cannot be overlooked.

He also questioned why such incidents continue to occur despite earlier public assurances that operational procedures would be reviewed to minimize harm to civilians.

Among the cases cited were reported incidents at Jilli Market in Yobe State, Shiroro Market in Niger State, and Tumfa Market in Zamfara State, all occurring between April and May, which the commission described as part of a troubling trend demanding immediate attention.

The NHRC stressed that fundamental principles of warfare including the distinction between combatants and civilians, proportionality in the use of force, and military necessity must govern every operation, particularly in areas where civilian populations are at risk.

It firmly rejected the notion that civilian deaths should ever be accepted as inevitable byproducts of security operations.

The commission called on the Nigerian Air Force to provide a thorough and transparent account of the incidents and outline concrete measures being put in place to prevent future occurrences.

It also demanded independent investigations into all reported cases of civilian casualties, insisting that affected families are entitled to justice, compensation, and adequate support.