Abuja: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged the Federal Government to take immediate action to address the escalating killings in Benue and other parts of the country.
The Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr Tony Ojukwu, SAN, made the call in Abuja.
He also called for urgent measures to restore peace and end the violence.
“The right to life is being threatened.
“These incidents have resulted in the tragic loss of lives, displacement of innocent people, and wanton destruction of property, leaving many families and communities in trauma and despair,” he said.
He described the killings as ‘disturbing.” The NHRC is worried about the consequences of the ongoing carnage in Plateau and Benue.
“Benue is the food basket of the nation. The present insecurity, if unchecked, means that people can no longer go to their farms this farming season,” he said.
He said the ongoing insecurity, particularly in the country’s food-producing regions, points to looming famine and food insecurity soon.
Ojukwu called on the government at all levels to take immediate and concrete steps to address the escalating security situation in Benue, Plateau, and other parts of the country.
“The government has the primary duty of the protection of civilians.
He called for the deployment of adequate security personnel to affected areas to ensure the protection of lives and property, the conduct of a thorough investigation into the incidents, and the prosecution of perpetrators of violence to ensure accountability and justice.
The executive secretary also called for the provision of support and protection to vulnerable populations, including women, children, and the elderly, which constitutes the primary responsibility of the government,” he said.
He noted that addressing the root causes of conflict and violence, including poverty, inequality, and social exclusion, and promoting dialogue could help.
Ojukwu added that reconciliation among communities to foster peaceful coexistence must be pursued genuinely and intentionally by all relevant stakeholders.
He urged security agencies to adhere to international human rights standards and principles in responding to the situation.
“All relevant stakeholders, including community leaders, political office holders, civil society organisations, and the media, should promote peace, tolerance, and understanding.
“The NHRC recognises the critical role that these stakeholders can play in preventing further violence and promoting human rights.
“All must make efforts to hold perpetrators to account, including a public investigation, restitution, justice, and compensation to victims and their families,” he said.
Ojukwu assured that the Commission would continue to monitor the situation and engage with relevant authorities to ensure that human rights are protected and promoted.
