By Abdulkareem Haruna

The ongoing battle against Boko Haram in Northeast Nigeria has reached a significant juncture, marked by a renewed emphasis on accountability and community engagement. This was underscored by the Theater Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Wahidi Shaibu, during the recently concluded 4th edition of the Nigeria Army Human Rights Seminar held in Maiduguri. 

While the seminar’s focus was on “Balancing Security and Human Rights: A Shared Responsibility,” the revelations shared by Maj. Gen. Shaibu painted a picture of tangible progress in prosecuting terrorism suspects and fostering a more collaborative relationship between the military and the local populace.

A key achievement highlighted by the Theater Commander was the conviction of 273 individuals in recent months for terrorism-related activities. This significant number, resulting from a rigorous review by a special team from the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, demonstrates a concrete step towards dismantling terrorist networks through legal means. The sentences, ranging up to 20 years or more, send a strong message that those involved in perpetrating violence and supporting insurgency will be held accountable for their actions.

Maj. Gen. Shaibu emphasized the critical role of the Joint Investigation Center (JIC) in this process, asserting that those detained are not innocent but have cases to answer, ranging from direct involvement in terrorist acts to collaboration and the promotion of their activities. This underscores the military’s commitment to ensuring due process and utilizing legal frameworks to address the complex challenges posed by the insurgency. The TC, while making a comment from the audience side during a panel session, emphasized that ongoing prosecutions are not merely about punishment; they represent a strategic effort to weaken the operational capacity and ideological influence of Boko Haram by removing key actors from their ranks.

General Shaibu also addressed the delicate balance between national security and human rights, a central theme of the seminar. He articulated the state’s inherent right to protect its citizens, even if it necessitates limiting the freedoms of individuals who pose a direct threat to peace and security. His stance on this context acknowledges the complexities of counter-terrorism operations in a region grappling with a protracted and brutal insurgency. However, framing it within the context of a human rights seminar suggests an awareness of the need for these security measures to be implemented within a framework of legality and respect for fundamental rights.

Furthermore, the contributions from other senior military officers during the seminar shed light on the multifaceted approach being adopted in the Northeast. Major General Abubakar Haruna, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division, passionately appealed for a change in public perception of the military. He addressed the prevalent apprehension and negative stereotypes, urging the community to view the military as partners in the pursuit of peace and security. Gen. Haruna highlighted the sacrifices made by the troops and lamented the narrative that portrays them as a “second enemy.” He called for an end to harmful jokes and misconceptions that fuel mistrust and hinder collaboration.

Gen. Haruna’s emphasis on shared responsibility was particularly poignant. He pointed out the counterproductive nature of citizens passively waiting for the military to act against individuals impersonating security personnel for criminal activities. He urged the community to actively participate in maintaining security by reporting suspicious activities and challenging those who misuse military uniforms. This call for civic engagement underscores the understanding within the military leadership that a sustainable solution to the insurgency requires the active involvement and trust of the local population.

Echoing this sentiment, Major General Gold Chibuisi, the Chief of Civil Military Affairs, reinforced the commitment to addressing human rights violations within the military. He assured the community of a zero-tolerance policy for such abuses and encouraged them to come forward with information, guaranteeing their protection. This open invitation for feedback and the assurance of confidentiality are crucial steps in building trust and fostering a collaborative environment where the community feels safe to share vital intelligence.

In conclusion, the 4th edition of the Nigeria Army Human Rights Seminar in Maiduguri provided a platform to showcase significant achievements in the legal prosecution of Boko Haram combatants, as highlighted by Major General Wahidi Shaibu. The conviction of 273 individuals marks a tangible step forward in dismantling terrorist networks through the rule of law. Furthermore, the discussions led by Generals Haruna and Chibuisi underscored a growing recognition within the military leadership of the critical need for community partnership and a positive shift in public perception. By emphasizing shared responsibility, addressing negative stereotypes, and demonstrating a commitment to human rights, the military is signaling a new chapter in its counter-terrorism efforts in the Northeast – one that seeks to achieve lasting peace through a combination of robust security measures and genuine collaboration with the communities it serves. The path ahead remains challenging, but the progress highlighted at the seminar offers a glimmer of hope for a more secure and rights-respecting future for the region.