Nigerian Air Force Arrests Officers Allegedly Involved in Flogging Curfew Violators

The Nigerian Air Force says its personnel seen in a viral video flogging citizens in Ilesha, Osun State, have been arrested and investigation into the matter commenced.

In the video which surfaced on Tuesday, the Air Force personnel were seen beating some men who were lying face down in muddy water. They were accused of violating the 24-hour curfew declared by Osun State Governor, Mr Gboyega Oyetola.

Similarly on Monday, another video emerged of three military officers mercilessly beating a man in Jos, Plateau state, also for violating the curfew in an effort to help his pregnant wife.

However, the Nigerian Army has remained silent on the incident.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Nigerian Air Force said the victims of the inhumane punishment were suspected hoodlums involved in “criminal activities”.

“We wish to inform the general public that Nigerian Airforce has identified all the personnel involved in the incident and placed them on close arrest, while investigation to determine their level of culpability has commenced, after which appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.

“As a professional and disciplined force, Nigerian Air Force does not condone such irresponsible acts and has zero tolerance for human rights violations in whatever guise, even against suspected criminals; as all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.

“The acts depicted in the video are at variance with our core values, as we place high premium on the rights of citizens. We wish to reassure that our personnel have been directed on professional conduct to ensure security, whilst remaining accountable to the Nigerian people,” the statement read.