Nigeria’s Defense Chief Criticizes Nations for Double Standards
Nigeria’s defense chief, Gen. Christopher Musa, expressed frustration on Tuesday over what he perceives as “double standards” in some countries that refuse to sell military weapons to Nigeria due to human rights concerns. This frustration highlights a significant challenge for Nigeria, particularly in addressing security crises ranging from the Islamist militant insurgency in the northeast to armed groups threatening communities in the northwest and central regions.
Musa told reporters in Abuja that, despite Nigeria’s financial capacity, acquiring essential equipment like helicopters, drones, and Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles is difficult. He criticized the inconsistency in the application of human rights standards, with some countries using such concerns as a basis for withholding arms sales. Musa emphasized the existence of double standards, suggesting that some accusers have committed worse offenses without being held accountable. However, he did not specify which countries he was referring to.
Nigeria’s security forces have faced longstanding allegations of extrajudicial killings and illegal arrests, leading major arms suppliers, including the United States, to withhold weapon sales over human rights concerns. In December, a Nigerian army drone mistakenly targeted a religious gathering in Kaduna state, resulting in the deaths of at least 85 civilians.
Musa asserted that Nigeria’s military has been working to improve its human rights record, holding personnel accountable for alleged abuses. While he claimed ongoing investigations into incidents, critics argue that there is little evidence of substantial improvement in Nigeria’s military approach to human rights.
Isa Sanusi, Amnesty International’s director in Nigeria, emphasized the need for the military to prioritize protecting civilians and address human rights violations through accountability measures.
The frustration over arms restrictions adds to Nigeria’s security challenges, where ongoing conflicts require advanced weaponry for effective counterinsurgency operations. Despite financial capabilities, the lack of international support in the form of weapon sales hampers the military’s capacity to address complex security threats.
