He assured Nigerians and the international community that his government would investigate the cases of abuse and prosecute those responsible.
In response to a Human Rights Watch report detailing Nigerian officials’ sexual abuse of internally displaced persons (IDPs), President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday called for investigations into the alleged abuse.
Presidential spokesperson Garba Shehu issued a press release on Monday saying that Mr. Buhari was “shocked” and “worried” about the report. He assured Nigerians and the international community that his government would investigate the cases of abuse and prosecute those responsible.
According to the press release, Mr. Buhari has instructed the Inspector General of Police and the governors of the concerned States to begin investigations into IDP abuse.
“While the Nigerian military continues to work hard so that these unfortunate victims of Boko Haram terrorism can soon return safely to their homes, the government will do its best to ensure their protection and welfare in the temporary IDP camps,” the statement read.
The Human Rights Watch report stated that Nigerian officials have raped at least 43 women and girls in the IDP camps.
