NHRC demands answers in fatal shooting of Kaduna teenager by soldier

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has demanded a comprehensive investigation into the tragic killing of 16-year-old Isma’il Muhammad in Zaria during the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest.

The commission expressed grave concerns over the incident, which occurred during a 24-hour curfew aimed at containing the protests.

NHRC Executive Secretary, Mr. Tony Ojukwu, condemned the killing and emphasized the need for a thorough probe, especially in light of the commission’s prior warnings about the excessive use of force by law enforcement agencies during protests.

“The use of lethal force against unarmed civilians, especially minors, is unacceptable and a clear violation of international human rights standards.

“We demand a thorough and transparent investigation into this incident and call for the soldier involved to be held accountable” he said.

He charged that “authorities should ensure that law enforcement agencies operate within the ambit of the law and respect human rights.”

Following the fatal shooting of Mohammed, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has ordered the soldier responsible to be apprehended.

In a statement, Maj Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, revealed the circumstances leading to the teenager’s death and confirmed that the soldier has been arrested and is currently being interrogated.