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Bloodshed Across Nigeria: IHRAAC Calls for Urgent Protection of Human Rights

Katsina City News
04 Aug, 2024
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Call for Human Rights Protection Amidst Tragic Incidents Across Nigerian States

Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar, Katsina Times

Abuja, Nigeria – In light of recent tragic incidents across multiple states in Nigeria, the International Human Rights Advocacy and Awareness Centre LTD/GTE (IHRAAC) has issued an urgent appeal for the respect of human rights and the rule of law. The call comes after the reported loss of innocent lives during protests in states including Kano, Lagos, Kaduna, Katsina, Gombe, Jigawa, and Borno.

IHRAAC, a prominent human rights organization, has documented several distressing incidents:

- In Kano State, at Kurna Rijiyar Lemu, multiple innocent citizens were killed.

- In Jigawa State, particularly in Kazaure and Andaza, fatal shootings included victims such as a minor girl. Additional violence was reported at the Jigawa Government House and in Gumel.

- Similar loss of life has been reported in Kaduna, Borno, and Katsina States amidst ongoing unrest.

These events highlight the urgent need for action to protect human rights and ensure accountability. IHRAAC has outlined several key demands to Nigerian authorities:

1. Accountability: Immediate and thorough investigations into reported violence and human rights abuses, with those responsible for unlawful acts held accountable.

2. Compensation: Fair and adequate compensation for the families of victims who lost their lives or were injured.

3. Release of Detainees: Immediate release of individuals detained in connection with the protests, ensuring their rights to due process.

4. Protection of Civilians**: Deployment of security forces that adhere to international human rights standards, using force only as a last resort.

5. Respect for Freedom of Assembly: Protection of citizens' rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.

6. Engagement in Dialogue: Inclusive dialogue with civil society organizations, community leaders, and protest organizers to address grievances and seek peaceful resolutions.

7. Humanitarian Support: Provision of necessary medical care and psychosocial support to those affected by the violence.

Dr. Salisu Musa, Chairman of IHRAAC, emphasized the organization's readiness to support efforts towards justice, peace, and respect for human rights in Nigeria. He urged both state and federal governments to take decisive actions to prevent further loss of life and ensure a peaceful and inclusive resolution to the current crisis.

IHRAAC's call is a critical reminder of the need for immediate and effective measures to uphold human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria.