Operation Hadin Kai Clarifies Resurfaced 2016 Amnesty Report On Giwa Barracks

The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, has clarified that a report alleging deaths of detainees at Giwa Barracks, Maiduguri, being recirculated on social media is from 2016 and not a recent development.

In a statement on Saturday, Acting Military Information Officer, Captain Mohammed Goni, said the report attributed to Amnesty International was originally published in May 2016 and contained allegations relating to deaths recorded between January and May of that year.

He said the recirculation of the report without its historical context is misleading and capable of creating the false impression that the deaths are recent.

“The report dates back to 2016, concerns allegations relating to detention conditions during that period and has no connection with events or conditions at the facility in 2026,” Goni said.

The Task Force urged media organisations, online platforms and members of the public to exercise due diligence when reproducing archival reports, particularly on sensitive security and humanitarian issues, and to provide original dates and context.

It added that the Joint Investigation Centre at Giwa Barracks operates in accordance with Nigerian laws and international standards, with emphasis on welfare, lawful treatment and rehabilitation of detainees, including access to medical care, skills acquisition, vocational training, as well as Western and Islamic education.

According to the statement, the Centre maintains engagement with humanitarian and human rights organisations and has granted access to national and international media in 2026 to observe its activities.

Operation HADIN KAI reiterated its commitment to professional conduct and respect for laws, while remaining focused on restoring lasting peace in the North East.