HRW Report: IG raises team to probe sexual abuse of IDPs

Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, has set up a special investigation team to immediately probe all cases of alleged sexual abuses, exploitation, harassments, gender-based violence and professional misconduct on Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, in some North-East states.

Recall that a report published by Human Rights Watch alleged these offences against camp officials, vigilante groups, soldiers and policemen, among others.

A statement from Force Headquarters by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Don Awunah, said: “The IGP, who is irrevocably committed to the protection of all Nigerians, especially vulnerable group such as internally-displaced persons, IDPs, has expressed concern over the submissions in the report and has directed the Special Investigation Panel to carry out a discreet and unbiased investigation into all the cases of abuse and misconduct alleged in the report.

“However, the IGP called on Human Rights Watch officials to avail the team more facts that will assist investigation into the alleged 43 cases mentioned in the report.

“The IGP also directed Commissioners of Police, in locations where IDP camps are situated, to beef up security and ensure adequate safety of all IDPs.

“The Nigeria Police Force assures Nigerians and the international community that it will not condone acts that violate the human dignity of IDPs by individuals or group of persons in the IDP camps or anywhere in the country.”