In effort to combat impunity among officers of the armed forces on major highways, there was the need to establish robust accountability mechanisms within the security agencies.
This was part of the concern raised by the former Chairman Containers Truck Drivers’ Association, Comrade Salisu Adamu Abubakar, while commenting on the recent ugly incident involving a J5 driver who was shot by an army security personnel on the Zaria-Kaduna highway.
Comrade Salisu described the Alledge incident as unbecoming of personnel detailed to protect the people, calling for the provision of avenues for reporting and addressing human rights abuses, establishing independent oversight bodies, and ensuring that allegations of misconduct are thoroughly investigated.
“Perpetrators of abuses must be held accountable through fair and transparent disciplinary processes, including prosecution when necessary,” he suggested.
“This is gross injustice for a driver who is pursuing lawful means of livelihood to end up a victim of security excesses”.
“There should also be clear guidelines on the use of force, and soldiers should be trained in human rights, to help to stop armed personnel from harassing citizens and breaking the law with impunity”.
“There has to be political will to implement repercussions of flouting the law for those in the force. The first step in preventing armed forces personnel from harassing citizens and breaking the law with impunity”.
“In addition, they must be held accountable for their actions. If someone is found to have violated the law, they should be punished accordingly.” Salisu added.
He said having a system in place will also help to deter future abuse, as members of the force know that there are consequences for every action.
“We don’t want these drivers to take over the roads in protest over these injustices, particularly on the highways, until the President or relevant authorities are aware and help address these excesses”.