By Our Correspondent
National News – The National Human Rights Commission has demanded explanations from the Nigerian Air Force over repeated civilian casualties linked to military airstrikes in parts of Nigeria.
The commission raised concerns on Wednesday after reported bombings at markets in Yobe State, Niger State and Zamfara State allegedly killed several residents.
The commission said the incidents have sparked questions about the protection of civilians during anti-banditry and counter-insurgency operations.
The Executive Secretary of the commission, Tony Ojukwu, described the airstrikes as disturbing and inconsistent with international humanitarian law.
According to him, the Federal Government has the responsibility to combat terrorism and banditry, but military operations must respect human rights and constitutional provisions.
He called on the Air Force to explain the circumstances surrounding the attacks and reveal measures being taken to avoid further civilian deaths.
The commission specifically mentioned reported casualties at Jilli Market in Yobe State in April, Shiroro Market in Niger State in May, and Tumfa Market in Zamfara State on May 10.
Ojukwu questioned why civilian casualties linked to air operations have continued despite previous investigations and public concerns.
He stressed that women, children and other innocent residents should never become collateral damage during security operations.
The NHRC also urged the military to improve intelligence gathering, operational safeguards and accountability mechanisms before carrying out aerial attacks in populated communities.
It called for transparent and independent investigations into all reported incidents, adding that victims and affected families deserve justice, compensation and psychosocial support.
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters maintained that recent operations targeted criminal elements and were based on credible intelligence.
However, rights groups, including Amnesty International, have continued to demand accountability over alleged civilian deaths during military airstrikes in northern Nigeria.
