The Special Independent Investigative Panel on Human Rights Violations in Counter-Insurgency Operations in the North East Nigeria (SIIP NORTH EAST) has concluded hearing on Reuters reports.
The report by the foreign media Organization had alleged that the Nigerian military was involved in a systematic, secret and forced abortion programme resulting in the termination of over 10,000 pregnancies, mass killing of children and other forms of gender-based violence against women between 2013 and 2021.
The 7-Member Panel of experts Chaired by Justice Abdu Aboki (rtd) commenced investigation into the report since February 2023 and had in the course of the inquiry held 11 sittings both in Abuja and some parts of North East Nigeria including Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States.
Though the panel which was set up by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is yet to complete its assignment but it has heard testimonies of several witnesses including officers and soldiers as well as civilians who are relevant in the investigation.
At the last and 11th hearing, the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice of Borno State, Hauwa Abubakar Esq made oral testimony before the panel.
Also at the hearing the Nigerian Army submitted its final written address on its earlier testimonies to the panel.
In his remarks at the end of the hearing session, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu OFR, SAN commended the panel members and the secretariat staff for painstakingly discharging the onerous responsibility even though the report of the panel is being awaited.
Similarly, the Chairman of the panel, Justice Abdu Aboki commended the Executive Secretary for entrusting him and the Members of the panel with the important national assignment.
He also gave kudos to the Secretary of the panel, Mr. Hilary Ogbonna and the entire Secretariat for their hard work and support to the panel. Mr. Ogbonna said that the Members of the panel will be working assiduously with the secretariat to write the panel's report as soon as possible.
Thereafter, the eminent Jurist, Justice Aboki adjourned the panel till a later date for a report presentation to the National Human Rights Commission in Abuja.
