NHRC Begins Probe Into Use Of Chemical Weapons On Civilians In Benue

NHRCThe National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched investigations into the alleged use of chemical weapons on civilians by suspected gunmen in some parts of Benue State last month.

This was contained in a statement issued by the NHRC Chief Public Relations Officer, Fatima Mohammed on Friday in Abuja.

According to the statement, Executive Secretary of the Commission, Professor Bem Angwe, revealed the commencement of the probe when he led a delegation to Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam.

Angwe said that the Protection Sector Working Group (PSWG) will next week visit Benue State to conduct a full scale investigation into the alleged use of chemical weapons on people and also assess the human rights situation of internally displaced persons as a result of the crisis.

The PSWG include the NHRC, National Emergency Management Agency, National Commission for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons, Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Red Cross Society, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development among others.

Angwe, who chairs the PSWG, said, “If indeed chemical weapons are being used in Benue State, this is a direct threat to humanity which is a dangerous trend and if unchecked can spread to other parts of the country”.