President Muhammadu Buhari has stated that the application of the Leahy Law by the U.S without substantial proof of human rights violations against Nigeria's military has aided Boko Haram insurgency.
He stated this on Wednesday at the U.S Institute of Peace in Washington DC.
"The Leahy Law or Leahy amendment is a U.S. human rights law that prohibits the U.S. Department of State and Department of Defense from providing military assistance to foreign military units that violate human rights with impunity" (Wikipedia, 2015)
According to the President, “In our efforts at combating the activities of Boko Haram, the new Government has sought and obtained the support of not only our neighbours, but other international friends and partners.
“Regrettably, the blanket application of the Leahy Law by the United States on the grounds of unproven allegations of human rights violations levelled against our forces has denied us access to appropriate strategic weapons to prosecute the war against the insurgents.
“In the face of abduction of innocent school girls from their hostels, indiscriminate bombings of civilians in markets and places of worship, our forces have remained largely impotent.
“This is because they do not possess the appropriate weapons and technology which they could have had, had the so-called human rights violations not been an obstacle.
“Unwittingly, and I dare say, unintentionally, the application of the Leahy law amendment by the U. S. Government has
aided and abated the Boko Haram terrorist group in the prosecution of its extremist ideology and hate, the indiscriminate killings and maiming of civilians, in raping of women and girls, and in their other heinous crimes.’’
aided and abated the Boko Haram terrorist group in the prosecution of its extremist ideology and hate, the indiscriminate killings and maiming of civilians, in raping of women and girls, and in their other heinous crimes.’’
Buhari further emphasized that “The longer we delay, the deadlier the Boko Haram gets. At all events, we have re-written the rules of engagement protecting the rights of combatants and in particular safeguarding civilians in theatres of conflict.
“As we ramp up our efforts to defeat Boko Haram, we know that winning this battle sustainably will require that we expand economic opportunities and create jobs for our teeming young population.’’
“We must win and sustain the trust of the people we govern’’, the President said.
Buhari further assured of his commitment to fighting corruption in the country. “I am even more committed to fighting this number one enemy decisively because I am convinced beyond any shadow of doubt that the much needed impetus for our country’s survival is held back by corruption" he added.
Buhari promised to be fair, just and to lead by example especially in the prudent management of the depleted resources of the country.
“Again, as with every action of the government that I lead, we would be fair, just, and scrupulously follow due process, and the rule of law, as enshrined in our Constitution.
"I will lead by example to ensure the prudent management of Nigeria’s resources. The government will plug the leakages that fuel corruption in Nigeria." Buhari assured.
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