The Taraba Tiv Youth Development Forum, TTYDF, has come out against the alleged abuse of their kinsmen by soldiers in Wukari LGA’s Ikyaior village.
Their criticism came in response to media reports that a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Bernard Richard, and his housekeeper, Terhemen Cornelius, were brutalised by men in military fatigue.
The 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Jalingo, which administers the area and responds to press enquiries, has likewise distanced its personnel from the act.
In a statement issued Friday, the Tiv group’s president and secretary, Torkuma Moses and Uko Wuaga, respectively, denounced the incident as a grave violation of their kinsmen’s fundamental human rights.
What they’re saying
The statement reads in part,
“We wonder why military men whose primary duty is to protect citizens’ lives and property would prefer to engage in illegal and unprofessional operations.”
“While we truly sympathise with Terhemen Cornelius, whose left eye was damaged during the unlawful and unprofessional operation, we wish to call on the Taraba State Government, Defence Headquarters, and the Federal Government to investigate thoroughly and punish those military men who carried out that unlawful operation on the innocent peaceful residents of Ikyaior village.
Bottom Line
The Nigerian military has faced criticism in the past for alleged misconduct, particularly in conflict zones. This incident shows the need for continuous training and oversight to ensure that military personnel adhere to professional and ethical standards. It is crucial for the military to maintain its credibility and support within the communities it serves.
Nigeria is a diverse country with a complex history of ethnic relations. Incidents like this can exacerbate existing tensions and must be handled with sensitivity to prevent further conflict.
