NGO calls for probe into alleged deaths in military facility, urges calm

Crime Diary

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Unity Advocacy Group (UAG) has called for a thorough investigation into allegations that about 150 members of a Fulani community died in a military-controlled detention facility in Kwara State, urging Nigerians to remain calm.

The group’s Convener, Ifeanyi Aigbedion, made the call in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja.

Aigbedion said the claim, reportedly attributed to Amnesty International, remains unverified and should not be treated as established fact.

He stressed that allegations of such magnitude require proper verification by competent authorities before any conclusions are drawn.

He warned that the circulation of unconfirmed reports, particularly on sensitive security and ethnic issues, could inflame tensions and undermine national unity.

According to him, while the allegations are serious and warrant attention, they must be subjected to a transparent and independent investigation through appropriate legal and institutional channels.

Aigbedion noted that the Nigerian Armed Forces have maintained a record of professionalism and respect for human rights in both domestic operations and international peacekeeping missions.

He added that the military’s conduct under the United Nations, African Union and ECOWAS frameworks has earned recognition for discipline and adherence to international humanitarian standards.

The UAG convener also cautioned against narratives that could misrepresent security institutions based on unverified claims, stressing the importance of balanced and fact-based reporting.

He called on relevant authorities to carry out a comprehensive investigation and make the findings public in order to address speculation and restore public confidence.

Aigbedion reaffirmed the group’s commitment to national unity and peaceful coexistence, urging the media and the public to prioritise accuracy, restraint and responsible communication in handling security-related matters.