NHRC questions Air Force amid rising civilian deaths in airstrikes

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged the Nigerian Air Force to provide an urgent explanation for the ongoing airstrikes that it says have caused civilian deaths across the country. The commission warns that the pattern of these incidents raises serious concerns about human rights and accountability.

Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu expressed growing worry over what he described as repeated loss of civilian life during military aerial operations carried out as part of counter‑insurgency and anti‑banditry campaigns.

He emphasized that while the Federal Government is obligated to address insecurity, such operations must be conducted within legal limits and in accordance with international humanitarian standards that safeguard civilians.

Ojukwu noted that reports of deaths and injuries involving women, children and other vulnerable groups during airstrikes suggest possible violations of the right to life and human dignity, which cannot be ignored.

He questioned why similar incidents continue to occur despite earlier public concern and assurances that operational procedures would be reviewed to prevent civilian harm.

He cited several reported cases from April to May, including incidents at Jilli Market in Yobe State, Shiroro Market in Niger State, and Tumfa Market in Zamfara State, describing them as part of a troubling trend that demands urgent attention.

He asked, “Why does this keep happening, and for how long will Nigerians continue to witness such tragedies?”

The NHRC stressed that key principles of warfare—distinction between combatants and civilians, proportionality in the use of force, and necessity—must guide every military action, especially in communities where civilians are at risk.

It warned that civilian populations must never be treated as unintended casualties in security operations.

The commission further urged the Nigerian Air Force to provide a detailed explanation of the incidents and to clarify what measures are in place to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies.

It also called for independent and transparent investigations into all reported cases of civilian casualties, insisting that affected families deserve justice, compensation, and adequate support.