UN Calls on Parties in Conflict to Shield Civilians from Harm

United Nations has called on all the parties in conflicts in Nigeria to desist from war crime by protecting civilians and preventing further pain and suffering on them.

Speaking at the Bakassi internally displaced persons camp in commemoration of the World Humanitarian Day yesterday, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria, Edward Kallon, said there was need to respect the law guiding war.

He said: “UN SecretaryGeneral, Antonio Guterres, has published his first report on the Protection of Civilians. He calls for enhanced respect for international humanitarian and human rights law, and protection of civilians, including humanitarian and medical workers, as well as civilian infrastructure. He also calls for the prevention of forced displacement, and durable solutions for refugees and internally displaced persons.”

He lamented the increase in suicide bombings in the North-east, noting that this has led to many civilian casualties.

He said: “Here in the Northeast of Nigeria, civilians continue to bear the brunt of the conflict. Women, men and children face grave human rights violations and sexual and gender-based violence.

“Since the start of the conflict in 2009 more than 20,000 people have been killed, thousands of women and girls have been abducted and children continue to be used on a regular basis as so-called “suicide” bombers.”

He said: “Thousands of families have been forced to flee their villages, rather than build their homes, livelihoods and communities.