Allegations of Torture and Destruction by Nigerian Soldiers in Niger State

In a recent escalation of violence, Nigerian soldiers allegedly burned down civilian homes in Shiroro, Niger State, mistaking the residents for bandits. Eyewitness accounts reveal brutal treatment of locals during a wedding ceremony, with significant physical and emotional trauma inflicted. Youth leaders warn that this attack aggravates the hunger crisis in the area, highlighting the urgency for justice and accountability for the victims, amid ongoing scrutiny from international human rights organizations.

On Friday, allegations surfaced regarding Nigerian soldiers in Erena, Shiroro Local Government Area, who reportedly burned down homes in Chikuba. However, it was revealed that the destroyed houses belonged to innocent civilians who claimed to have faced brutal treatment from the soldiers. Dogo Gide, a known bandit causing havoc in rural Niger, Kaduna, and Zamfara, was linked to past violence, including an attack on a military aircraft.

Witnesses recounted harrowing tales of the soldiers’ operation in Makera, Kudodo, and Sabon Gida, with accounts of numerous homes destroyed and civilians tormented. A video circulating online captured the pain of local women mourning amidst the devastation. Youth leaders voiced that such actions would worsen the already dire hunger crisis in the region, as about 20 structures were reportedly burned.

During the soldiers’ patrol, they interrupted a wedding in Makera, demanding to know the whereabouts of bandits. A victim of the torture described, “They started beating everyone, including the imam present for the wedding.” Soldiers confiscated personal belongings—including 18 cell phones—and subjected attendees to questioning and maltreatment.

Some victims endured severe physical consequences, with reports of one attendee fainting and another losing teeth due to the violence. The soldiers not only inflicted pain but also vandalized the bride’s belongings. Additionally, they accused villagers of financially supporting bandits, purportedly advising them to arm themselves for defense.

After their assault in Makera, the soldiers reportedly shot indiscriminately in Chukuba, where residents fled before the invasion. They continued their rampage to Sabon Gida, destroying not only homes but also food supplies critical to local families. Youth leaders highlighted the risks of impending hunger, stating that the bandits’ actions and military operations left communities with little means to sustain themselves.

The Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security and other officials did not respond to inquiries regarding the incident. Residents of Shiroro and surrounding LGAs have endured ongoing violence; military attacks often exceed the threats posed by terrorist groups. Previous operations, like those in Kurebe, resulted in civilian casualties as well, raising alarms about the conduct of security forces.

These patterns of violence have prompted the International Criminal Court (ICC) to scrutinize Nigerian security personnel. Recently, the Nigerian government requested the ICC to halt its investigations, arguing that they impede troop morale. Meanwhile, the International Human Rights Commission has committed to investigating Friday’s events and may explore legal avenues to address the victims’ plight.

This report underscores the tragic incidents involving Nigerian soldiers and innocent civilians in Niger State. The military’s actions not only inflict physical harm but also contribute to escalating humanitarian crises. The need for accountability and justice for victims remains paramount as investigations by various human rights organizations advance. Continued scrutiny from entities like the ICC may prove crucial in addressing these grievous concerns and restoring faith in security practices.

Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com