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Panel to Probe Human Rights Violations in Ongoing Counter-Insurgency Operations in North-East Inaugurated
Panel to Probe Human Rights Violations in Ongoing Counter-Insurgency Operations in North-East Inaugurated
By Michael Mike
The Special Independent Investigative Panel on Human Rights Violations in Counter-Insurgency Operations in North-East Nigeria (SIIP North East) has been inaugurated to probe the alleged allegations by the military in the ongoing operations in the region.
The panel is headed by a retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Abdu Aboki, other members include Kemi Okenyodo, Azubuike Nwankenta, Maj. Gen. Letam Wiwa (Rtd.) Dr. Maisaratu Bakari, Dr. Fatima Akilu, Halima Nuradeen and Hilary Ogbonna as the secretary.
Inaugurating the panel at the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Headquarters in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Chief Tony Ojukwu said the decision for the inauguration followed the allegations of gross human rights violations contained in the three-part report published in December 2022 on military operations in the north east by media group Reuters.
He said the National Human Rights Commission has invoked its inherent, express and incidental powers as contained in sections 5 and 6 of the NHRC Act as amended to constitute a special independent investigative panel.
He noted that the terms of reference include: Investigate allegations of gross violations of national and international human rights laws/principles alleged against the Nigerian Armed Forces in the three reports by Reuters. (Sections 5(a)(b)(j) and 6(1)(a) of the NHRC Act, 2010);
Receive memorandum from individuals and organisations with interest in the subject matter of the mandate of the SIIP North-East, especially human rights, security and humanitarian organisations working in the North-East; Make appropriate determinations as to culpability of individuals or institutions as may be deemed necessary in each circumstance. (Section 5(j) of the NHRC Act 2010).
Others include to make determination as to the damages or compensation payable in relation to any violation of human rights where it deems this necessary in the circumstances of the case (sec. 6(e) of the NHRC Act, 2010); Refer any matter of human rights violations requiring prosecution to the Attorney General of the Federation or of a State, as the case may be. (Section 5(p) of the NHRC Act, 2010); and to make recommendations to government on Institutional, Policy and Regulatory measures to be taken to integrate human rights principles and practices into military and counter-insurgency operations; Propose Remedial steps that may enhance the professional conduct of military personnel in counter-insurgency operations; and any other related issues that the SIIP North-East may be considered appropriate.
He disclosed that the SIIP North-East shall operate under the mandate of the National Human Rights Commission and shall enjoy its express and incidental powers under section 6(1) and (2) of the NHRC Act.
Ojukwu noted that membership of the panel was drawn from major professional backgrounds relating to the allegations contained in the report, which includes law and human rights, medicine and psychology, military intelligence and humanitarian affairs.
He said: “The National Human Rights Commission is honoured that these eminent Nigerians have agreed to share their time, talents and wealth of experience with the Commission. We are indeed grateful for your generosity. We want to thank the Nigerian Bar Association and the Nigerian Medical Association whose members are represented in the panel.
He added that “the allegations contained in the aforementioned reports are grievous and present a major concern to all of us in the human rights field. As I inaugurate this panel today, it is the hope of the Commission and indeed every Nigerian that this panel will work hard with all the human and other resources at your disposal to investigate and unravel the truth behind these allegations and ensure that justice is done in all appropriate cases. The Commission has given you the mandate and all necessary incidental powers to achieve the terms of reference and objectives for the establishment of this Panel. We are convinced that we have chosen the right team for this work.”
He appealed for cooperation from the state governments, the Nigerian Military, the United Nations System, international and local non-governmental organisations and the traditional and religious institutions in the North East and welcomed the pledge by the Chief of Defence Staff that the military institution will cooperate with this investigation and the subsequent deployment of a Military Liaison to the secretariat of the Panel.
He said that: “To protect human rights and ensure accountability for violations is a sacred duty which all of us as the human family have a mission to uphold.”
Responding, the Chairman of the Panel, Justice Abdu Aboki (Rtd.), expressed thanks on behalf of the members for their appointment to serve.
He said: “Protecting human rights and ensuring accountability and remedies for violations are cardinal principle of every democracy and civilised society. Human rights are God’s gift to humanity. They confer dignity to humankind and make us special beings. Their violations by any person or institutions, should be treated with all sense of justice and accountability.”
He promised that: “Our Panel will endeavour in every respect to abide by the rules of natural justice. We will be fair and just to all manner of persons who appear before us as victims, witness, respondent, Officer, Counsel and citizens. This panel has been constituted to bring justice to investigate human rights violations and bring justice to victims where appropriate. We will be guided by this throughout our sittings and will strive to do substantial justice devoid of technicalities.”
Panel to Probe Human Rights Violations in Ongoing Counter-Insurgency Operations in North-East Inaugurated
NDLEA, US-DEA to strengthen collaboration on drug war
By: Michael Mike
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration of the United States (DEA) have stressed the need to strengthen current collaboration between the two agencies on the fight against the menace of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
This was the highpoint of discussion during a meeting between the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Buba Marwa (Rtd) and the Country Attache of US-DEA, Ms. Daphne Morrison on Friday at the NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja
Marwa, while appreciating the cordial
working relationship and partnership between NDLEA and DEA, Ms. Morrison who was recently posted to Nigeria said “I wanted to make this one of my priorities to come meet with you so we can continue to collaborate and work together.
“And thank you so much for your support over the years, and we’re ready to keep things going. I know you’ve been working well with the last Country Attaché, so I’m ready to get back in and collaborate and do some really great things with you.”
She said efforts are ongoing to organise more trainings for officers and men of the Special Operations Units of the afency Amwhile looking forward to a number of joint operations with NDLEA in already identified areas of interests.
In his response, the NDLEA boss acknowledged the excellent relationships with Morrison’s predecessors. He said: “They’ve been very, very supportive, and I have absolutely no doubt in my mind that it will be the same, if not better, with you.” He acknowledged the recent evolution of NDLEA in the size of its workforce, expansion of operational and administrative structures as well as remarkable successes recorded in its drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.
While acknowledging the support received from DEA over the years especially in areas of equipment, training, and joint operations, Marwa expressed hope that more of such support will continue. “I think we would welcome much more support but because this being your first visit to introduce yourself, I’m not going to bring out a long list of demands or requests, but just to acknowledge that we appreciate all the support we’ve been receiving.”
NDLEA, US-DEA to strengthen collaboration on drug war
APC Affirms One-China Principle, Lauds Nigeria-China Partnership
By: Michael Mike
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has affirmed its unwavering commitment to the one-China principle, recognising Taiwan as an integral part of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
Speaking in an interview in Abuja on Wednesday, the APC National Vice-Chairman (North-East), Comrade Mustapha Salihu, said the party is in full alignment with the federal government’s diplomatic stance.
He said: “Nigeria is unequivocally committed to the One-China Principle. Consequently, the policies and principles of the APC will mirror those of our federal government in diplomatic matters.
“China is a significant partner for our nation; they regard us as equals rather than a lesser nation. This perspective fosters a relationship of mutual progress. Therefore, it is wise for the government to support the one-China principle.”
Salihu reiterated the APC’s firm support for the government’s diplomatic policies, stating, “As a party, we stand resolutely behind the one-China principle.”
He praised the positive outcomes of Nigeria-China diplomatic relations, particularly in trade, investment, and infrastructural development.
He said: “Our partnership with China has yielded substantial results. We have witnessed the construction of extensive roads, bridges, and railways by Chinese companies, with counterpart funding from the Chinese government.
“In addition, projects such as the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) natural gas pipeline and various free trade zones in Nigeria have been funded, in whole or in part, by Chinese institutions. Chinese enterprises are eager to establish factories and businesses in Nigeria, and many are already contributing to our economy,” he noted.
He attributed the influx of foreign investment in Nigeria to the APC administration’s business-friendly policies, including amendments to the Companies and Allied Matters Act, which have streamlined processes for investors.
He expressed the party’s readiness to strengthen ties with the Communist Party of China (CPC) through collaboration in cultural exchange, trade, education, and human capital development.
He said: “We are dedicated to fostering mutual growth and reinforcing our historic partnership.”
APC Affirms One-China Principle, Lauds Nigeria-China Partnership
VP Shettima Departs For Taraba Investment Summit
By: Our Reporter
Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, for Jalingo, Taraba State, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Taraba International Investment Summit 2025.
The summit, themed “Unlocking Taraba’s Investment Potentials – Advancing Agriculture, Energy, Mining and Industrialisation (AEMI) for Sustainable Growth and Development,” is taking place today in the state capital. VP Shettima is also scheduled to commission several key development projects during his visit to the state.
The Vice President is accompanied by Senator David Jimkuta, representing Taraba South Senatorial District; Senator Emmanuel Bwacha, former Deputy Senate Minority Leader; Hon. David Abel Fuoh, member representing Sardauna/Kurmi/Gashaka Federal Constituency; Hon. Prince Ayuba Zaku Dampar, member representing Ibi/Wukari Federal Constituency; Hon. Mohammed Abdullahi; H.E. Uba Maigari, Minister of State for Regional Development and Aisha Rimi, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC).
The Taraba International Investment Summit is expected to showcase the state’s vast agricultural, energy, and mineral resources to potential investors from across Nigeria and abroad, aligning with President Tinubu’s vision of expanding economic opportunities beyond major urban centres to include all parts of the country.
VP Shettima Departs For Taraba Investment Summit
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