The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has called on Amnesty International to provide evidence supporting its recent allegations of torture and abuse of civilians in military custody in Nigeria’s northeast.
Amnesty International claimed that more than 10,000 individuals have died in military detention since the onset of the Boko Haram insurgency. The organization’s Nigeria Country Director, Isa Sanusi, disclosed at a press conference that a lawsuit had been filed at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, alleging crimes against humanity in the region.
Reacting to the claims, Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, dismissed them as “shocking” and “mischievous.” According to Buba, the allegations lack merit and do not reflect the realities on the ground. He stressed that the military operates within the framework of international best practices, adhering strictly to rules of engagement to prevent civilian casualties.
In a detailed statement, Buba said, “The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to some spurious allegations made by Amnesty International during a press conference held on December 5, 2024. It was alleged that over ten thousand civilians have died in Nigerian military detention facilities since the onset of Boko Haram insurgency. These claims are not only mischievous but also devoid of factual merit.”
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Buba emphasized the military’s standard procedure for handling suspects, stating that all arrested individuals are carefully profiled and subsequently handed over to appropriate agencies for release or prosecution following investigations. He also highlighted that standing court-martial systems within operational theaters are in place to address any unethical conduct by personnel.
“The armed forces of Nigeria operate under the professional leadership of General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, and remain committed to fulfilling their constitutional mandate in line with international best practices,” Buba stated.
He called on Amnesty International to provide concrete evidence to substantiate its allegations, asserting that the military is open to investigating any credible claims. “The armed forces invite Amnesty International to present the details of its accusations to enable thorough investigations and to establish the truth.”
