HURIWA Calls for Intelligence Probe into Southern Kaduna Violence

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has formally requested that the Department of State Services (DSS) conduct an urgent intelligence investigation into the recent surge of violence in Southern Kaduna. The group suggests that the timing of these attacks, which include killings and mass abductions, warrants a thorough review to determine if political motives are influencing the instability.

Concerns Over Timing and Political Developments

According to a statement released by HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, the association is particularly concerned about the recurrence of violence following reports that Governor Uba Sani has selected a Christian running mate from Southern Kaduna for the 2027 gubernatorial election. While HURIWA stated it is not drawing definitive conclusions, it emphasized that the circumstances require federal intelligence intervention to identify if any actors are sponsoring violence to destabilize the state.

Recent Incidents and Community Impact

The call for an investigation follows a violent incident on Wednesday, November 4, in the Akwando community of Kachia Local Government Area. Reports from the Kuturmi Unity Development Association (KUDA), led by President Joseph Ariko and Publicity Secretary Hon. Manasseh Akwando, indicate that two people were killed and 20 were abducted during the attack.

HURIWA highlighted a pattern of violence in the region, citing previous incidents:

• Ariko Community: An Easter Sunday attack resulted in five deaths at the scene, with 17 additional victims reportedly dying while in captivity.
• Awon Community: An attack left two people dead and 11 abducted, with varying outcomes for those held captive.

Beyond physical violence, the association expressed alarm over allegations that armed groups are imposing illegal levies on residents and restricting access to ancestral farmlands, which the group describes as a severe violation of fundamental human rights.

Calls for Security and Governance

While HURIWA has been critical of the security situation, it also commended Governor Uba Sani for his administration’s collaboration with security agencies and his stance against granting impunity to terrorists. The association urged the governor to continue engaging with traditional, religious, and community leaders to foster peace.

To address the immediate crisis, HURIWA has issued several demands to federal authorities, including President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, and the leadership of the security services:

• Immediate rescue operations for the 20 residents abducted from Akwando and other captives.
• Deployment of well-equipped security personnel to vulnerable communities.
• Establishment of permanent security posts and improved early-warning mechanisms.
• Investigation into reports of extortion and land access restrictions.
• Provision of humanitarian aid to displaced persons and affected families.

Conclusion

HURIWA concluded its statement by warning political actors against exploiting insecurity for electoral gain or promoting ethnic and religious divisions. The association maintains that the residents of Southern Kaduna have a fundamental right to live, farm, and worship without the threat of violence, urging that peace-building efforts must be paired with accountability and the effective protection of all citizens.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Channels Television

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