Alleged Extrajudicial Killings by Nigerian Soldiers Rock Kaduna Community

Residents of Tilde Fulbe, a community in Kaduna State, Nigeria, are reeling from a series of alleged extrajudicial killings reportedly carried out by Nigerian soldiers between December 21 and January 10. The disturbing accounts paint a grim picture of arbitrary arrests, extortion, and the cold-blooded murder of civilians.

One such victim was Akilu Abdullahi, a young man whose dream of becoming an imam was abruptly cut short when he was seized by soldiers on his way to the market and never returned home. His lifeless body, riddled with bullet wounds, was later discovered, leaving his family devastated.

Similarly, Nura Yusuf met a tragic end when he was shot and killed by a man in military uniform while selling goods at a local market. Witnesses recount how soldiers, after shooting Yusuf, callously hurled his corpse into a military van and drove away.

The community has released the names of 11 individuals allegedly killed during the military raid, including promising young men like Ibrahim Abubakar and Safiyanu Adamu. Eyewitnesses describe a climate of fear, with residents fleeing to mosques or the state capital for safety as soldiers instilled terror in the community.

The Nigerian Army has denied involvement in the killings, attributing their presence in Tilde Fulbe to a response to a reported kidnap incident. However, investigations by various sources have found no evidence of terrorist activity in the area during the military operation.

This is not the first time allegations of human rights abuses have been leveled against the Nigerian military. Over the years, the army has faced accusations of extrajudicial executions and excessive use of force, with few perpetrators facing consequences.

In response to these allegations, Saleh Momale, Executive Vice Chairman of the Kaduna Peace Commission, acknowledged the need for a thorough investigation and emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law.

Despite denials from military authorities, witnesses and victims’ families stand firm in their accounts, demanding justice for their loved ones.