Global Rights an international human rights and governance capacity-building non-governmental organization has condemned the siege imposed by the Nigerian Army around Banex Plaza, Wuse II, Abuja, which commenced on Saturday, May 18, 2024.
The organization has demanded the immediate withdrawal of army trucks and personnel from the plaza and the release of individuals arrested in connection with the events, or their transfer to the Police for proper interrogation and possible prosecution.
Since May 18, army trucks have been stationed outside Banex Plaza, transforming the bustling commercial hub into a scene of intimidation. The presence of these vehicles has prevented business owners and customers from accessing the plaza, violating the rights of law-abiding Nigerians who depend on their businesses for their livelihood.
Articles 6(1) and 7 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, to which Nigeria is a signatory, affirm the right to work and earn an honest living—a right currently being obstructed by the Army’s actions.
According to the organisation, human rights violations reported include the assault of a non-belligerent passerby, who is now in a coma, and the arrest and torture of a shop owner, Caleb Onyemaeachi Chidera, without any evidence linking them to the attack on the soldiers.
Global Rights maintains that the Nigerian Army lacks the authority to conduct reprisals under the guise of criminal investigations. This responsibility, according to the Armed Forces Act and the Police Act 2020, lies with the Nigerian Police Force. The Police are legally empowered to detect, prevent crime, and arrest offenders, with the Army’s role being limited to supporting the Police within the confines of the law.