Private Vendettas, Military Power: The Illegal Use of Soldiers in Nigeria

In Nigeria, a troubling form of lawlessness wears a uniform. Individuals with connections call soldiers to enforce personal grudges. This practice tramples citizens’ rights under the guise of authority. By law, only the police can arrest civilians. The Constitution and the Armed Forces Act limit the military to national defence and formal support for civil authority. Personal disputes over land, money or ego do not justify deploying soldiers. Despite this, soldiers are summoned to arrest and intimidate private citizens without warrants or due process. Victims face humiliation, assault and fear. Both the caller and the soldier believe they are delivering justice. They are committing a crime. Every Nigerian has a right to personal liberty and due process. Military personnel must obey both civil and military law. Courts and human rights organisations exist to hold violators accountable. No one is above the law.

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