The Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, has said the Nigerian Army will accept the findings of a panel set to be established by the National Human Rights Commission, on the report of alleged abortion of 10,000 babies by operatives.
Irabor said this on Friday, when he visited the NHRC headquarters with senior officials, following the Commission’s resolve to constitute a panel of investigation on the matter.
Recall that Reuters had alleged that its investigation revealed the Nigerian military conducted secret abortion program in the country’s north-east, ending at least 10,000 pregnancies among victims of insurgency.
Speaking with newsmen at the NHRC chambers, Irabor denied the allegations in the Reuters report.
“So, today, I have come, more so, that in recent times, there have been reports which alluded that the Armed Forces is involved in government program of abortions in the Northeast of Nigeria, since 2013 to date. That report was published by Reuters and of course, when we looked at it, we felt that this is certainly not us and it does not represent the professional standing of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“It does not also indicate the DNA of our operational engagement, not just in the Northeast of Nigeria but across the length and breadth of the country where we have footprints of operations in line with the dictates of the Constitution.
“So, at first, we felt that perhaps there were some extra-territorial powers that want to weaken the strength of the Armed Forces, being at the forefront of the current engagement that seeks to bring peace to our land. So, some actions need to be taken.
“But of course, being bound by law and guided by laws, we have taken a look and felt that the right establishment that should undertake the investigation is the NHRC.
“So, it is in that light that I have come to formally inform you, if perhaps you are not thinking about it, I am sure you have also seen the reports that was published, that we as an Armed Force, stands ready for any establishment and I am certain that in this case, the NHRC stands a good ground to carry out an investigation”, he said.
Responding to the question on whether he would accept the report of the NHRC panel if it indicts the military, Irabor said, “it is obvious, if I have any reason not to accept, I would not have been here. I know the orders that I have given the army that I lead.
“Armed forces is the one that is accused, and you cannot be a judge in your own case. Yes Of course, we will (accept the panel report).”
After he spoke, the NHRC Executive Security, Tony Ojukwu (SAN), said he welcomes the cooperation of the military regarding its decision to investigate the allegations.
“Accordingly, your visit and request has coincided with the resolve of the NHRC to investigate the allegations in the Reuters report because of the human rights implication of the reports.
“As we look forward to announcing further steps in the near future towards the constitution of the panel of investigation into the Reuters report, please accept the warm regards of the National Human Rights Commission”, he said.
Ojukwu also commended the Nigerian army under the leadership of Irabor for securing the country and fighting terrorism.
