In the wake of escalating tensions in the Niger Delta region, Omoyele Sowore, the pro-democracy activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress in the 2023 general elections, has issued a fervent plea for restraint and justice.
Sowore’s impassioned appeal comes amidst reports of alleged militants in the Niger Delta ambushing Nigerian soldiers, prompting a retaliatory response from the Nigerian Army.
In a statement, Sowore expressed deep concern over the unfolding situation, denouncing the violence and calling for a measured approach in addressing the crisis.
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He condemned the killing of Nigerian security forces but cautioned against resorting to indiscriminate reprisals, emphasizing the importance of upholding human rights principles.
“I have been inundated with gory images of alleged militants in the Niger Delta region killing Nigerian soldiers in an apparent ambush,” Sowore remarked.
“Following this, there has been a disturbing number of commentaries asking the Nigerian Army to level the area, mostly from Nigerians enlightened enough to know that such reaction constitutes international crime.”
Sowore’s statement highlights a critical issue: the need for a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the recent violence.
He urged the Nigerian authorities to collaborate with international human rights organizations to ensure transparency and accountability in the process.
By involving external stakeholders, Sowore believes that justice can be served and those responsible for the attacks held accountable.
“While the attack of Nigerian security forces remains condemnable and unacceptable, no security agency/ies should engage in jungle justice,” Sowore asserted. “The Nigerian Army must restrain its officers and ensure that the rights of innocent civilians are not breached carelessly as it had always done in similar cases.”
Sowore’s call for restraint and accountability resonates amid growing concerns over the escalating conflict in the Niger Delta.
As tensions continue to simmer, his advocacy for a peaceful and just resolution serves as a beacon of hope for all those affected by the crisis. It remains to be seen whether his plea will prompt meaningful action from the Nigerian authorities and pave the way for lasting peace in the region.
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