Osinbajo Constitutes Military Rights Violation Judicial Panel

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, has appointed a 7-man Judicial Commission, to review compliance of the Nigerian Armed Forces with human rights obligations and rules of engagement, especially in local conflict and insurgency situations.

In a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant on Media & Publicity to the Acting President, Laolu Akande, said the Commission, headed by Justice Biobele A. Georgewill, of the Court of Appeal, is empowered to review extant rules of engagement applicable in the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the extent of compliance thereto.

It is also empowered to investigate alleged acts of violation, (by Nigerian security agencies) of international humanitarian and human rights law under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), Geneva Conventions Act, African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act and other relevant laws

The Commission equally has a mandate to investigate factors that might be militating against a speedy resolution of local conflicts and insurgencies and also advise on means of preventing violations of international humanitarian and human rights law in conflict situations.

The Commission is expected to commence work immediately and submit its report within 90 days.
The full list of members of the Judicial Commission is as follows:

Hon. Justice Biobele A. Georgewill – Chairman;

Major-General Patrick Akem – member;

Mr. Wale Fapohunda – member;

Mrs. Hauwa Ibrahim – member;

Mr. Jibrin Ibrahim – member;

Mrs. Ifeoma Nwakama – member; and

Representative of the Office of the National Security Adviser – member.