Nigerian Army Accused of Demolishing Homes, Mosque, and School in Kaduna Despite Court Order

In a deeply troubling development, residents of the Anguwan Tanko community in Jaji, Kaduna State are crying out after soldiers from the Nigerian Army allegedly demolished homes, a mosque, and a school—in the dead of night—despite a standing court order halting the action.

According to Sahara Reporters, the demolitions were ordered by Lt. Col. D.C. Nwakonobi, the Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI), Jaji. The affected residents say the destruction began on July 25, with bulldozers and military personnel arriving after dark and flattening dozens of buildings, leaving many families homeless.

One resident lamented, “We were not even given time to remove our belongings. They came at night like thieves and destroyed our homes.”

What makes the incident especially controversial is that the Kaduna State High Court had previously issued a restraining order against the military, forbidding further demolition pending the determination of the case. But it appears the Army ignored the legal directive.

Community Outrage and Legal Action

Members of the Anguwan Tanko community have condemned the military’s actions, accusing the Army of contempt of court and flagrant abuse of human rights. The affected individuals, many of whom are poor families, now face displacement, hunger, and trauma.

Human rights groups have called for an independent investigation and immediate legal redress for the victims. Legal practitioners say the Army could face sanctions or damages for violating a court injunction.

Background and Tension

This isn’t the first time military-civilian tensions have escalated in Kaduna. Local leaders warn that such actions could further alienate communities from the government and ignite civil unrest.

As of now, the Nigerian Army has not released an official statement, though public pressure is mounting for accountability.