Buhari Warns Military - "We Will Not Tolerate Any Human Rights Abuses"

President Muhammadu Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has given a strict warning to the security agencies in Nigeria to be cautious with the way they treat civilians, saying he will not tolerate any human rights abuses.

Buhari said this during his national speech delivered today on the way forward towards the fight against coronavirus in the country, which has prompted a total lockdown of economic activities in Nigeria.

He assured Nigerians of their safety and also appreciated the efforts of security agencies during these trying times. However, the President did not fail to address the ill-treatment given to civilians by security agencies and warned that his administration will not tolerate it.

Buhari said:

"Our Security Agencies continue to rise to the challenge posed by this unusual situation. While we feel deeply concerned about isolated security incidents involving hoodlums and miscreants, I want to assure all Nigerians that your safety and security remains our primary concern especially in these exceedingly difficult and uncertain times. 

"As we focus on protecting lives and properties, we will not tolerate any human rights abuses by our security agencies. The few reported incidences are regrettable, and I want to assure you that the culprits will be brought to justice."

Buhari added that he has ordered that all security personnel be provided with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), to enable them to protect themselves from contracting the virus.

"I urge all Nigerians to continue to cooperate and show understanding whenever they encounter security agents. 

"Furthermore, for their protection, I have instructed the personnel of the security agencies be provided with the necessary personal protective equipment for their own protection," he added.