The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has described the recent death of Brigadier General Musa Uba and several soldiers at the hands of a terrorist group in Borno State as a huge loss to the nation. The Commission urged the government to ensure that those who sacrificed their comfort for the safety and security of citizens are not “slaughtered like chickens.”
Brigadier General Uba reportedly led soldiers on a routine patrol to secure communities in Wajiroko Azir Multi, Damboa Local Government Area, before their lives were cut short by insurgents.
Expressing shock over the “heart-rending incidents,” NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu in a statement signed by Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, Director, Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, called on the Nigerian Armed Forces not to be discouraged by the loss of gallant personnel. He stressed the importance of remaining focused on the mission to defeat terrorism, ensuring that Nigerians can live in safe and secure communities.
Dr. Ojukwu also recommended comprehensive documentation of all military personnel who have fallen to insurgency, as a means to provide healing and succour to affected families. He advocated for the adoption of transitional justice systems used in other jurisdictions, highlighting their potential to bring forgiveness, reconciliation, reintegration, and lasting peace more efficiently than traditional court processes.
He encouraged members of affected communities to cooperate with security forces by providing useful information, thereby supporting the success of professional military operations.
On behalf of NHRC management and staff, Dr. Ojukwu extended condolences to the Nigerian Armed Forces, particularly the Nigerian Army, and the families of the fallen heroes. He described the killings as a gross human rights violation against personnel serving on active duty in defence of the nation.
Ojukwu also commended the Nigerian military for the robust civil-military relations that have enhanced the integration of human rights principles in military operations across the country.
