…the killing of unarmed civilians, violation of human rights must not be swept under the carpet
Two weeks ago, there were hostilities in Orlu between Nigerian forces and people suspected to be members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN). In the wake of the crisis, countless innocent lives were lost, and assaults meted out on peace-loving citizens. Gory images abound about the horrifying situation. A mother, food vendor, was shot dead, likewise a young man on his way to Orlu from Njaba. Scores of other- -yet-to-be-identified corpses littered the streets. There was arson, and even the beating up of a respected traditional ruler by security operatives.
Till this day, there has not been any authoritative information from the Government about the immediate and remote causes of the incident, those who are culpable and the approach to forestalling a recurrence.
We therefore demand an independent judicial panel of inquiry to be set up in order to unearth the causes of the ugly scenario and to bring those involved in the reckless killing of unarmed civilians and human rights violations to book.
We commend the Government for acting quickly by withdrawing the troops which helped to deescalate the crisis and restore normalcy, but there must be a commitment to finding an enduring solution to the conflict.
Those whose lives were untimely taken away cannot be ignored. Their spirits weep for justice. And that is the least we should give them. Those whose rights were trampled upon deserve justice, too. We cannot allow the culture of impunity to thrive in our land. Those who are entrusted with the protection of lives must know they are accountable when human lives are lost. Orlu people deserve justice, and the first step to getting that is through a panel of inquiry.
Signed:
Chief Emeka Diwe
National President
Hon. Gideon Adikwuru
National Secretary