The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has called for independent investigations into reports that airstrikes carried out by Nigerian and Chadian forces killed scores of civilians in separate incidents.
Türk expressed concern over allegations that a Nigerian airstrike on a local market reportedly left at least 100 civilians dead, while Chadian air raids inside Nigerian territory allegedly killed dozens of fishermen.
The UN rights chief stressed the need for transparent and impartial investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents and ensure accountability where necessary.
The reported bombings have sparked outrage and renewed concerns over civilian casualties linked to military operations in conflict-hit regions around the Lake Chad Basin and North-West Nigeria.
Human rights groups and local residents have also raised alarm over the increasing impact of counterterrorism operations on vulnerable communities.
Türk urged all parties involved in security operations to comply with international humanitarian law and take necessary measures to protect civilian populations during military engagements.
The development is expected to intensify global scrutiny of ongoing military operations targeting insurgents and armed groups across the region.
About The Author
