NHRC Describes Death of Brig. Gen. Uba, Others as Huge Loss to Nigeria
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has described the recent death of Brigadier General Musa Uba and some soldiers by a rampaging terrorist group in Borno State as a huge loss to the nation, calling on the government not to allow those who sacrifice their comfort for the enjoyment of peace and security to be slaughtered like chickens.
The gallant senior Army officer, Brigadier General Uba reportedly led some soldiers on a routine patrol to secure communities in Wajiroko Azir Multi, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State before their lives were cut short by the insurgents.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu OFR, SAN who stated this while expressing shock over the “heart-rending incidents” urged the Nigerian Armed Forces not to be discouraged by the loss of these gallant military personnel and other fallen heroes but to remain focused on the goal to win the war against terrorism so that everyone can live in a safe and conducive environment.
He called for a comprehensive documentation of all military personnel who are victims of the insurgency in the country with a view to providing healing and succour to the affected families.
He called for proper adoption of transitional justice system used in some other jurisdictions to resolve complex conflicts. He said this system is affordable and it has the potential to bring healing, forgiveness, reconciliation and reintegration in the society and this is faster than the adversarial court system.
This according to him has the capacity to bring a lasting peace to our nation. According to the Chief Human Rights Officer of Nigeria peace is possible in the communities that were ravaged by insurgents.
He enjoined members of the affected communities to cooperate with officers and soldiers operating in their area by volunteering useful information to them so that military operations can be professionally accomplished.
The Executive Secretary, on behalf of the Management and Staff of the NHRC, commiserates with the Nigerian Armed Forces, particularly the Nigerian Army and the families of the fallen heroes at this moment of grief.
“We consider the killing of the military personnel in the instant case and in other circumstances as a gross human rights violation perpetrated against them while on active duty in defence of their fatherland”, Dr. Ojukwu stated.
In conclusion, Dr. Ojukwu commended the Nigerian military for the current robust civil- military relations in the country which has immensely enhanced the mainstreaming of human rights principles in military operations in the country.
