Just in: Nigerian military reveals the truth about civilians that were slaughtered in barracks
– Nigerian military says it is completely at a loss on the allegations by the international group
– Military spokesperson adds that the soldiers remain unmoved by the comments, to step up fight against Boko Haram
The Nigerian military has completely disassociated itself from the report of Amnesty International that some civilians died in a detention cell at Giwa Barracks.
In a press release made available by Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman on behalf of Brigadier General Rabe Abubakar, director of information at the defence headquarters, they Nigerian military was surprised by the accusations leveled against them.
READ ALSO: Amnesty International accuses army of killing 640 detainees
Colonel Usman who acts as the spokesperson for the military, stated: “The accusation comes as surprise and shock because the organisation has accessed the facilities and made recommendations which were implemented.
“It is rather unfortunate that an organization of higher repute such as Amnesty International could come around to release a report which is completely baseless, unfounded and source-less with the intent of denting the image of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“We would remain committed to the task we have started against the Boko Haram terrorists until they are annihilated.
READ ALSO: Troops recover sex-enhancing drugs from Boko Haram camp
“We are calling on all well meaning Nigerians and International Communities to discountenance this report as it has no iota of truth.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces uphold the tenets of observance of human right and dignity of lives of innocent individuals as enshrined in the Conventions and Charters of the United Nation which Nigeria is a signatory.
“This one sided report is defective in all intent and purpose and does not portray the sincerity of Amnesty International as well as reflecting the true situation in Giwa Barracks now.”
Amnesty International, in its investigation, said that at least 11 children under the age of six, comprising four babies, are among 149 people who have died this year following their detention in horrendous conditions in Giwa barracks detention centre in Maiduguri, Borno state capital.
AI collected facts via interviews with former detainees and eyewitnesses, backed by video and photos. The evidence shows many detainees may have died from disease, hunger, dehydration, and gunshots wounds. The report also contains satellite imagery which corroborates witness testimonies.
The post Just in: Nigerian military reveals the truth about civilians that were slaughtered in barracks appeared first on Nigeria News today & Breaking news | Read on NAIJ.COM (Nigerian newspapers).