NHRC set to investigate clash

chika ebuzor

December 22, 2015 4:52 AM

This is coming after the Nigerian Army petitioned the commission in a letter with reference number NA/COAS/G1/52, which was signed by Col. F.U Mijinyawa.

NHRC

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Executive Secretary, Prof. Bem Angwe has set up a panel to investigate the clash between the Nigerian Army and members of the Shiite Muslim sect.

This is coming after the Nigerian Army petitioned the commission in a letter with reference number NA/COAS/G1/52, which was signed by Col. F.U Mijinyawa.

In the petition, according to Punch Newspapers’ report, the Nigerian Army admitted to killing seven sect members and wounding 10 others, adding that they acted to save the life of the Chief of Army Staff, and their action was in line with the rules of engagement.

Speaking during the inauguration of the panel, Angwe said “Pursuant to the receipt of this complaint from the military, the commission, in line with its mandate to receive complaints on human rights violations, to monitor and to investigate such allegations, with a view to making appropriate determination in the circumstances, has decided to constitute an investigation panel with a view to carrying out a holistic investigation into the alleged violations of human rights.’’

The clash between the Nigerian Army and the sect was caused by an alleged assassination attempt on the life of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, by Shiite members.

Read: How I was almost killed in Zaria - Army Chief recounts ordeal

Also, the leader of the Shiite Muslims in Nigeria denied the allegations, saying his members did not try to assassinate Buratai.

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chika ebuzor