Tinubu Dismisses Military Probe Amid Ongoing ICC Investigation into Atrocities
President Bola Tinubu has ruled out the possibility of probing military operations across Nigeria, expressing confidence in the military’s utilization of allocated funds despite acknowledging the existence of financial leakages. Speaking during his first Presidential Media Chat, Tinubu praised the military’s efforts in combating insecurity across the country and insisted that probing the service chiefs would undermine the institution.
“I’m not probing any service chief,” Tinubu said. “You cannot disrespect the institution because of threats of probe. They are operating under very serious conditions, and I am proud of what they are doing today. No need to probe.”
The president lauded the improved security situation, claiming that roads once deemed unsafe for travel are now passable, although he admitted that infrastructure challenges persist.
Contrasting Views: ICC Investigates Alleged Military Crimes
While Tinubu expressed satisfaction with the military’s efforts, the International Criminal Court (ICC) is pursuing an investigation into alleged atrocities committed by Nigerian military personnel. Reports from the ICC, human rights organizations, and investigative media outlets document a series of grievous human rights violations by the military, including extrajudicial killings, torture, rape, and forced disappearances.
Notable Cases:
Mass Killing of Shiites in 2015: Over 300 Shiite members were killed by soldiers in Kaduna State, with a state inquiry indicting the Nigerian Army. Nine years later, no prosecutions have been made.
Civilians in Conflict Zones: Investigations reveal mass killings and secret burials in Borno State, with many missing civilians suspected to be victims of military actions.
Targeted Airstrikes: Civilians in the North-West and North-Central regions have reportedly been victims of indiscriminate bombings by the military.
Government’s Defense
Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi recently urged the ICC to discontinue its prolonged probe, arguing that it demoralizes military personnel risking their lives to combat terrorism. Fagbemi maintained that Nigeria’s legal and military systems are capable of addressing alleged crimes internally, asserting that the ICC’s mandate as a court of last resort is not applicable in this case.
A Legacy of Impunity?
Despite Nigeria’s assurances to the ICC, the military has yet to demonstrate accountability for past crimes. Human rights groups argue that unchecked military abuses undermine Nigeria’s claims of upholding international humanitarian laws.
As Tinubu refrains from initiating domestic probes, questions remain about Nigeria’s willingness and capacity to address military impunity, especially with the ICC’s scrutiny intensifying. For many Nigerians and victims of military abuses, justice and accountability seem distant.
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Tinubu Dismisses Military Probe Amid Ongoing ICC Investigation into Atrocities