BIAFRA: Army investigates Aba extra judical killing

 

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, on Thursday in Enugu said the Nigerian Armed Forces had commenced investigations into the alleged extra-judicial killing in February of unarmed pro-Biafra protesters in Aba, Abia State.
The victims, who are members of the Indigenous People of Biafra were reportedly killed by soldiers  opened fire as they were calling for the release of their leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

About 10 members of the group were reported  dead while over 30 sustained serious injuries during the incident.
Addressing , officers and men of the 82 Division, in Enugu, he said, “We have to ensure that we work within the framework of our rules of engagement.
“You know that the Rules of Engagement provides for the protection of human rights, especially the protection of innocent citizens.
“But in situations that entail the use of fire, the protection of human rights does not apply.
“So when you apply the Rules of Engagement and it is necessary to open fire human rights will not apply.”
While addressing journalist at the occasion Buratai said the army's  investigation is procedural “We are already investigating it. When such incidents involve the loss of lives we usually conduct an investigation – that is our procedure,”
  “We have our rules of engagement, the troops cannot just open fire.” He said defensively.
The investigation is not unconnected with Amnesty International accusation of the army of ‘excessive use of force’ during the protest.