UN Demands Investigation Into Nigerian Airstrikes

UN Demands Investigation Into Nigerian Airstrikes

The United Nations has called for urgent investigations into civilian deaths linked to recent military airstrikes in Nigeria.

UN human rights chief Volker Türk reacted after reports that a market in Zamfara State was hit during an air operation, leaving many people dead and others injured.

The global body also raised concerns over reports that Chadian military strikes in northwestern Nigeria allegedly killed several fishermen.

The incidents have added to growing worries over civilian casualties during operations against insurgents and armed groups in northern Nigeria.

Türk urged Nigerian and Chadian authorities to carry out fair and independent investigations into the incidents.

He also called on security forces to take stronger measures to protect civilians and avoid attacks on public places during military operations.

Human rights organisations have repeatedly raised concerns over accidental bombings in parts of northern Nigeria.

Nigerian military authorities, however, insist that their operations are based on intelligence and aimed at stopping attacks by terrorists and bandits.