RANN, Nigeria (Jan. 17, 2017) – After Tuesday’s bombing of an IDP camp in NE Nigeria killed dozens and wounded scores more, Executive Director Federico Borello said:
“Today’s tragic death of dozens of civilians and aid workers in a bombing in Rann by the Nigerian air force should push the government to conduct an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident, make its findings public, and swiftly provide aid to the victims and survivors there. The rapid expressions of regret and concern by President Buhari and the Nigerian command, as well as promises that an investigation will take place, are encouraging signs.
“However, effective policies on the protection of civilians and harm mitigation might have prevented today’s incident. Nigeria is working to put such policies in place, and this incident should strengthen its resolve to proceed swiftly in this direction. It should learn from this incident to ensure that the mistakes that led to this point are not repeated in the future.
“The primary concern at this point, however, should be to ensure that everything is being done to ease the suffering of the victims.”
Background:
- Nigerian Jet Mistakenly Bombs Refugee Camp, Killing Scores
- Nigerian Air Force Bombs Refugee Camp, More Than 100 Dead
- Dozens killed in Nigeria as jet mistakenly bombs displaced families’ camp
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Notes to editors:
Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC)’s mission is to improve protection for civilians caught in conflicts around the world. We call on and advise international organizations, governments, militaries, and armed non-state actors to adopt and implement policies to prevent civilian harm. When civilians are harmed we advocate for the provision of amends and post-harm assistance. We bring the voices of civilians themselves to those making decisions affecting their lives.
For more information, contact Christopher Allbritton at +1 (917) 310-4785 or chris@civiliansinconflict.org.
