NHRC Condemns Yobe Market Airstrike, Demands Independent Probe and Accountability Over Civilian Deaths

Rights body insists “accidental” label does not excuse state responsibility.

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By A1 News International | Abuja, Nigeria

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the recent airstrike on a civilian market at the Borno-Yobe border, which reportedly left over 56 people dead.

The Commission described the incident as a grave violation of fundamental human rights and called for urgent, independent investigations and accountability.

The Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, said the loss of civilian lives violates constitutional and international protections, including the right to life and dignity.

He stressed that describing the strike as “accidental” does not absolve the state of its legal obligation to protect civilians during military operations.

According to the Commission, the recurring pattern of airstrikes leading to civilian casualties raises serious concerns about compliance with international humanitarian principles such as distinction, proportionality, and precaution.

The NHRC noted that repeated incidents of this nature risk eroding public trust and undermining the legitimacy of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.

The Commission demanded an immediate, transparent, and independent investigation into the incident, insisting that the process must go beyond internal military review. It called for the inclusion of the NHRC, the National Assembly, independent experts, and representatives of affected communities to ensure credibility.

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It also urged full accountability across the chain of command, from intelligence officers to mission commanders and pilots involved in the operation. Administrative suspension of those directly linked to the strike was recommended pending the outcome of investigations.

The Commission further called on the Federal Government to provide urgent medical support for the injured, ensure dignified burials for the deceased, and offer adequate compensation to affected families in line with international human rights standards.

Additionally, it emphasized the need for comprehensive post-operation assessments to prevent future occurrences.

Call for Independent Investigation
The NHRC insisted that any inquiry into the airstrike must be independent and inclusive to ensure transparency and public confidence. It warned against leaving the process solely in the hands of the military.

Push for Civilian Protection Policy
The Commission renewed its call for the immediate implementation of a National Policy on the Protection of Civilians. It said such a framework must include strict protocols for intelligence verification, targeting procedures, and civilian harm mitigation.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about civilian safety in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations. Without accountability and structural reforms, repeated civilian casualties risk weakening public trust and complicating security efforts in conflict-affected regions.