The Kwande Local Government Area Traditional Council, in conjunction with the families of students and other residents reportedly impacted by recent actions of the Nigerian Army, has formally requested ₦50 billion in compensation for victims who were killed and injured during an alleged military operation in the region.
In a petition addressed to the Chief of Army Staff and submitted in Abuja on Monday, the families of the victims, represented by their legal counsel, Professor Sebastine Hon (SAN), have sought justice and an immediate cessation of what they characterize as “unconstitutional conduct” by soldiers stationed in Kwande, Benue State.
The petition details that the incident transpired in Jato-Aka, Kwande LGA, where soldiers are accused of opening fire without provocation on local residents who were returning from a funeral ceremony. Reports indicate that the shooting resulted in multiple fatalities and numerous injuries, including among students of ATM Secondary School.
Professor Hon condemned the conduct of the military personnel, expressing profound concern regarding the situation in which armed forces, whose constitutional duty is to safeguard citizens from threats such as terrorism and banditry, are now allegedly targeting innocent villagers.
“The Nigerian Army must accept full accountability for the reckless and unlawful actions of its personnel and ensure that appropriate compensation is provided to the bereaved families and those who have suffered injuries,” the petition asserts in part.
The community and affected families are advocating for ₦50 billion in compensation, which they deem necessary as reparation for the lives lost, injuries incurred, and property damaged during the alleged assault. As of the time of this report, there has been no official response from the Nigerian Army regarding the petition or the demand for compensation.
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