The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has firmly refuted allegations made by Amnesty International in a report launched during a press conference held in Abuja on June 10, 2024. In a press statement, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) emphasized its commitment to professionalism and adherence to international laws of armed conflict, humanitarian law, and human rights principles.
The AFN asserted its status as a professional military force operating within legal boundaries and underscored that it does not engage in public disputes with organizations like Amnesty International. Instead, the AFN invited Amnesty International to present any substantiated allegations directly to the military high command. The statement highlighted that the military has internal mechanisms for regulating conduct and administering justice, ensuring that any proven misconduct by personnel is appropriately addressed.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has a strict zero-tolerance policy for indiscipline and misconduct within the ranks. The AFN maintains standing court-martials to handle any incidents of misbehavior, particularly those that negatively impact the military’s reputation among the general populace.
The DHQ emphasized that the AFN remains focused on its mission and will not be deterred by statements intended to undermine troop morale. The AFN expressed its willingness to engage constructively with Amnesty International when appropriate, reaffirming its commitment to diligently conducting operations to defeat terrorism and protect the nation.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the AFN’s dedication to maintaining its professional standards and continuing its operational efforts across the country.