National News
NHRC Insists Violation of Human Rights by Military in the Northeast must be Punished

NHRC Insists Violation of Human Rights by Military in the Northeast must be Punished
… Compensations Paid to Victims
By: Michael Mike
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has said Nigerians must not lose sight of the fact that significant human rights violations did occur in the ongoing military counter-insurgency operation in the Northeast which calls for punishment for perpetrators and compensation to victims.
Speaking in Abuja at the opening of the Civil-Military Forum on the Recommendations and Findings of the Special Independent Investigative Panel on Human Rights Violations in Counter-Insurgency Operations in North-East Nigeria, the Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Salamatu Husseini Suleiman insisted that that the military was not found involved in the forced abortion of over 10,000 pregnant women in the crisis torn Northeast region as reported by Reuters did not mean it never violated human rights of the people of the area.
Suleiman, who was represented by another member of the NHRC board, Kemi Asiwaju-Okenyodo noted that the purpose of the forum was to foster an open and constructive dialogue between the Nigerian Armed Forces, the National Human Rights Commission, and key stakeholders, and
work toward implementing the findings and recommendations of the Special Independent Investigative Panel (SIIP) on Human Rights Violations in Counter-Insurgency Operations in North-East Nigeria.
She also noted that: “The findings of the SIIP North-East, which were guided by a commitment to thorough investigation, impartiality, and transparency, have brought to light serious concerns regarding the conduct of military operations in the region. These concerns include, but are not limited to, the killing of civilians in Abisari, Borno State, and allegations of forced and illegal abortions and other grave violations.
“While some of the most serious allegations, including systematic abuses, were not substantiated by the panel’s investigation, we must not lose sight of the fact that significant human rights violations did occur. The killing of civilians in Abisari remains a grave violation that demands justice, accountability, and immediate action.”
She insisted that: “These are not abstract issues. These are real lives, real families, and real communities whose suffering must be acknowledged and addressed, “ adding that: “The recommendations of the panel provide a roadmap for addressing these violations, holding perpetrators accountable, and ensuring that similar violations do not occur in the future.”
Among the panel’s key recommendations are include Compensation for the victims of the Abisari killings with the Federal Government ensuring that the families and communities affected are provided adequate reparations; the prosecution of those responsible for these heinous acts through a Court Martial and the referral of retired officers for prosecution by the Attorney General of the Federation; Reforms aimed at strengthening accountability mechanisms within the military, including improved training on human rights and the development of standards for military engagement that prioritize civilian protection.
She said: “As we discuss these recommendations today, let us remember that the ultimate goal is not just to address past wrongs, but to ensure a future where the Nigerian military conducts its operations with full respect for human rights. We must work toward a military that is not only capable in its fight against insurgency but also committed to protecting the dignity and rights of every Nigerian, particularly those in conflict zones.”
She added that: “As we embark on these discussions, I urge all of us here today to reflect deeply on the findings and recommendations, and to think about the practical steps we can take to move from dialogue to action. We must be prepared to implement reforms, hold individuals accountable for violations, and build a culture of respect for human rights within the military.”
Suleiman noted that: “Together, we can ensure that justice is done, that victims are compensated, and that we pave the way for a future where human rights are safeguarded in all aspects of our military operations.”
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, on his part, explained that in the light of the findings by the panel, “this forum serves as a platform for us to engage in meaningful dialogue and explore ways to address these concerns. Our primary goal is to bring together the Nigerian military and the NHRC — to collectively reflect on these findings and discuss practical steps for the implementation of the panel’s recommendations.”
He said: “At the NHRC, we believe that upholding human rights is not just the responsibility of the government or human rights organizations; it is a shared duty among all of us. As the National Human Rights Commission, we are committed to promoting human dignity, ensuring accountability, and strengthening the rule of law. This forum will help guide our collective efforts toward ensuring that such violations are addressed, and that we build a military that respects the rights and dignity of all civilians in conflict zones.”
He noted that: “issues we are addressing today are not only about past violations but about ensuring that we create a future where human rights are central to the operations of the Nigerian Armed Forces. This will require commitment, transparency, and the willingness to learn and grow from our past experiences.
“I am confident that the discussions and decisions that will take place today will contribute to the reforms needed to ensure greater accountability within the military and to establish stronger protections for civilians in the North-East and other conflict areas of the country.”
NHRC Insists Violation of Human Rights by Military in the Northeast must be Punished
National News
We were sexually abused by our Chinese employers in CAR, rescued Nigerian workers alleged

We were sexually abused by our Chinese employers in CAR, rescued Nigerian workers alleged
By: Michael Mike
Rescued 12 Nigerian trapped workers in Central African Republic (CAR) on Friday narrated their ordeal on breathing air of freedom in Nigeria, alleging that they were sexually harassed by their Chinese employers while workers at mining site.
The 12 stranded Nigerian men whose video went viral some three weeks ago finally arrived Nigeria and paid an appreciation visit to the NIDCOM office, where they were received by Chairman/ CEO Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and other management staff.
The leader of the rescued workers, Igorigo Freeborn said it is important for the world to know that despite owing them 11 months salaries, “we were homosexually abused by our Chinese employers in CAR.
“I am not ashamed to say it. I want other people to learn from it. We were treated badly there but thank God for sparing our lives to tell the stories today.
“I am one of those people who usually abuse Nigeria and I don’t think anything good can come out of the country but we were all so happy to receive help and succour from Nigeria.
“Let me use this opportunity to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the CAR Ambassador in Bangui, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) ,NEMA, Immigration Service and other government agencies for coming to our rescue almost immediately”, he said.
Freeborn said they had suffered a lot in the past 20 months that they left Nigeria and pleaded with the government to help them redress the injustices meted out to them by their employers.
He recalled how they were left stranded in the forest after work without payment leaving them starving in a harsh and unsafe living conditions. With support from the Presidency Ministry of Foreign Affairs ,NIDCOM, and the Nigerian mission, they were relocated to Bangui, provided with medical care, and eventually brought safely back home.
Welcoming back the returnees to Nigeria, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, assured them that justice will be served as the Commission in conjunction with relevant government agencies would take up the matter on their behalf.
The NIDCOM boss condemned the acts as inhumane and assured that the matter would be pursued to ensure justice is served in line with the citizen diplomacy of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu.
She counselled them to be of good behaviour and partner with the Commission in its advocacy on irregular migration and its consequences.
NIDCOM through Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa gave some cash support to all the returnees to enable them settle down while expecting their unpaid salaries.
She also called on well meaning Nigerians and corporate organisations to assist the Nigerians to settle down back in the country.
A cash donation from Perchstone and Greys, presented by Mr. Toyin Adenugba on behalf of Dr. Tolu Aderemi, Secretary to the Board of Trustees of the JAALS Foundation, were given to all the 12 returnees.
Adenugba explained that the support was a demonstration of belief in the evacuees’ potential, meant to serve as a seed for rebuilding their lives, supporting their families, and creating new opportunities at home.
Other rescued workers are Rotimi Kupoluyi, Ajosi Julius, Odeh Collins, Anifowoshe Yekini, Akubo Oluwaseun and Olayemi Peter Adewale.
Others were Stephen Abel Otkli, Samuel Ojochenemi, Alih Joel Muhammed, Unekwu Bala and Yusuf Bameyi.
End
National News
Police arrest MOPOL, security guards over warehouse burglary in Ogun

Police arrest MOPOL, security guards over warehouse burglary in Ogun
By: Zagazola Makama
The Police in Ogun have arrested a mobile policeman and several security guards for alleged conspiracy, burglary and theft from a warehouse belonging to H.K Printing & Packaging Limited, Agbara.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred on Aug. 9 at about 11:00 p.m., when a truck drove into the company premises and proceeded to the warehouse, allegedly aided by security operatives on duty.
According to the sources, Insp. Ibrahim James, attached to PMF 16 Abeokuta, was captured on CCTV moving around and allegedly leading the operation.
Another officer, Insp. Olabamipe Olaiya, posted to the same beat, was said to be absent from duty at the time.
The company’s security guards and the implicated police personnel allegedly conspired with others still at large to break into the warehouse and cart away goods whose total value is yet to be ascertained.
Police detectives led by CSP Phillips Abayomi, Acting ACP, Agbara Division, visited the scene and arrested the mobile policeman along with the private security guards on duty during the incident.
The suspects are being interrogated, while efforts are ongoing to track down fleeing accomplices and recover the stolen items.
Police arrest MOPOL, security guards over warehouse burglary in Ogun
National News
Police launch manhunt for herbalist over alleged ritual killing in Nasarawa

Police launch manhunt for herbalist over alleged ritual killing in Nasarawa
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nasarawa State Police Command says it is searching for a herbalist, simply identified as Alfa, over alleged involvement in a ritual killing and attempted murder in Mararaba.
It was gathered that the case was reported by one Jamilu Abubakar, a vigilante member.
Abubakar allegedly accompanied two young men to Alfa’s residence on Aug. 12 to seek spiritual assistance purportedly to make more money through internet fraud.
“It was gathered that Alfa prepared a concoction and meat for the victims to eat. Shortly after consuming the meal, both developed severe stomach pain and were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Mararaba.
“Sadly, one of the victims, Ani Sunday, aged 21, was confirmed dead by the doctor on duty, while the second, Tosin Akurunor, is responding to treatment,” said the sources.
He said Abubakar had been arrested for his role in taking the victims to the herbalist, while the main suspect, Alfa, was at large.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend Alfa and conclude investigations, he added.
Police launch manhunt for herbalist over alleged ritual killing in Nasarawa
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