Olasupo Thompson, Olugbenga S. Aina
& Surajudeen O. Oladele
Peace and Development Unit, ICGNS,
Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
Email: thompsonoo@funaab.edu.ng
Abstract
The Nigerian military is responsible for protecting the State from external aggression. It has been pivotal in addressing security challenges within the country and outside long ago even in the Fourth Republic, particularly against insurgencies and banditry. In the cause of carrying out its duty, it has infringed on peoples‘ right. While sufficient interests has been dedicated to studies on human rights abuses and the military role, adequate attention has not been dedicated to the abuses perpetuated by the Nigerian military and its implications for democratisation and national development. This paper examines these abuses, the government‘s responses, and their impact on democracy, governance, and stability. The paper relies on qualitative method. Secondary sources of data collection were from journals, textbooks and media reports. The paper found that the Nigerian Military operations has been marred by widespread allegations of human rights violations, such as extrajudicial killings and arbitrary arrests since colonial era and despite initiatives like investigative panels and human rights training, weak enforcement and systemic impunity have undermined progress, eroding public trust, weakening the rule of law, and perpetuating violence. Additionally, these violations have damaged Nigeria’s global reputation, hindering international partnerships and investments. The paper recommends urgent reforms in military accountability, strengthened civilian oversight, and adherence to international human rights norms to foster democratic consolidation, peace, and stability in the Fourth Republic.
Keywords: terrorism, military, civil-military relations, human rights abuse, insubordination, democracy
Introduction
Human rights, universally acknowledged as fundamental entitlements, are essential to global justice and dignity. They are universal, inalienable……