Mirian Gom 
UN rights chief Volker Türk
ABUJA, Nigeria – The United Nations calls for independent investigations into reports that Nigerian and Chadian airstrikes kill civilians in separate incidents across Nigeria.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, says allegations that Nigerian airstrikes hit a market and kill at least 100 civilians require urgent and impartial scrutiny.
Türk also raises concerns over reports that Chadian airstrikes inside Nigerian territory kill dozens of fishermen.
“It is crucial that both Nigerian and Chadian authorities conduct prompt, thorough, independent and impartial investigations into these disturbing incidents,” Türk says in a statement released Wednesday.
The UN rights chief insists authorities must ensure accountability for any violations committed during the operations, in line with international human rights standards.
The statement adds fresh international pressure on both Nigeria and Chad amid growing concerns over civilian casualties linked to counterinsurgency and cross-border military activities in the Lake Chad region.
Human rights organisations have repeatedly warned about the humanitarian consequences of military air operations targeting insurgent groups operating across border communities.
The latest allegations could intensify calls for stricter operational safeguards and transparent investigations into military conduct in conflict-affected areas.
Neither Nigerian nor Chadian authorities immediately issue detailed responses to the allegations at the time of reporting.
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Otamere Gladness 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius