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The Nigerian Army has addressed 39 cases of alleged human rights violations in Borno State, with an additional 50 cases still under investigation. This was revealed by the Desk Officer, Civil-Military Legal Desk of the division, Capt. I.L Akoyere, during a two-day community engagement on Civil-Military Cooperation organised by CLEEN Foundation in Maiduguri.

Captain Akoyere emphasised that the military is committed to respecting human rights and urged members of the civilian populace to report any alleged violations by the military personnel to the desk for necessary action and investigation.

He also explained that the desk was established to resolve civil cases using alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, while criminal cases are referred for Court Martial. Captain Akoyere further sought for maximum public support for the military, citing their sacrifices towards building lasting peace in the North-East region and the country as a whole.

In his presentation, the Programme Director of CLEEN Foundation, Mr Salaudeen Kassim, said the exercise was designed to sensitise stakeholders on how to further strengthen civil-military relations in the state. He added that the exercise would enhance professionalism in security agencies and help open communication with Civil Society Organisations that will promote more engagement in communities.

Other participants at the community engagement included officials from the police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, media and other stakeholders. The Public Relations Officer of the Borno Police Command, ASP Sani Kamilu, lauded the foundation for organising the training, stating that it would help to improve the relationship between security personnel and the public.

It is hoped that this initiative and other similar efforts will contribute significantly towards the building of strong and sustainable relations between the military and civilians in Nigeria.