By Chioma Favour
The National Human Rights Commission has expressed grave concern over the recurring loss of civilian lives resulting from military airstrikes in different parts of the country, describing the incidents as troubling and unacceptable under international human rights standards.
Executive Secretary of the Commission, Tony Ojukwu, said while the Nigerian government has a legitimate responsibility to tackle insurgency, banditry, and other security threats, military operations must always comply with constitutional provisions and international humanitarian laws.
According to Ojukwu, repeated reports of civilian deaths and injuries including women, children, and vulnerable residents have raised serious concerns about the protection of innocent lives during military operations.
The Commission therefore called on the Nigerian Air Force to provide a detailed explanation on the circumstances surrounding the repeated airstrike incidents and the steps being taken to prevent future civilian casualties.
“Nigerians deserve to know why this has become a recurring pattern. In April and May alone, incidents were recorded at Jilli Market in Yobe State, Shiroro Market in Niger State, and Tumfa Market in Zamfara State. For how long will this continue?” Ojukwu questioned.
He stressed that principles such as distinction, proportionality, accountability, and necessity are key obligations under international humanitarian law and must guide all military operations, especially in conflict-affected areas.
Ojukwu further stated that civilian lives should never be reduced to collateral damage, urging security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, operational safeguards, and accountability mechanisms to minimize harm to non-combatants.
The NHRC boss also called for immediate, transparent, and independent investigations into all reported incidents involving civilian casualties from airstrikes, insisting that victims and affected communities deserve justice, compensation, and psychosocial support.
The Commission maintained that national security and human rights protection must go together, noting that lasting peace and public confidence can only be achieved when security operations are conducted within the law and with respect for human dignity.
The NHRC reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the situation and engaging relevant authorities to ensure the protection of citizens’ rights across Nigeria.
