UNSG asks Nigeria to examine widespread abortions

• Antonio Guterres called on Nigerian authorities to investigate reports of widespread abortions.
• The Nigerian Army has maintained a secret, systematic, illegal abortion operation since 2013.
• At least 10,000 pregnancies were terminated among women.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Nigerian authorities to investigate reports of widespread and coercive abortions by the army.

Reuters reported Wednesday that the Nigerian Army has maintained a secret, systematic, illegal abortion operation since 2013.

According to dozens of witness reports and documents reviewed by Reuters, at least 10,000 pregnancies were terminated among women and girls kidnapped and raped by Boko Haram.

“The Secretary-General takes notice with the concern of reports of widespread and coercive abortions by the Nigerian Army,” Dujarric told Reuters.

He demanded a comprehensive probe and “prompt remedial actions and accountability measures”

Dujarric told reporters later Friday, “We call on Nigerian authorities to investigate these allegations and ensure responsibility.”

The Biden administration is “very worried,” claimed a State Department official.

The embassy in Abuja is seeking more information from the Nigerian government and other stakeholders. “We have urged the Nigerian government to investigate the claims thoroughly, and we will continue to do so.”

Nigeria’s defense commander said Thursday the military won’t examine the report. Nigeria’s government hasn’t commented.

Reuters reported that Information Minister Lai Mohammed couldn’t be reached for comment on the UN request.

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