The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the federal government to adopt a preventive security strategy to identify and neutralize threats before they result in massacres and mass abductions. This appeal comes in the wake of recent killings and abductions in Plateau, Zamfara, and Niger States. HURIWA's National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, expressed concern that citizens continue to lose their lives despite government assurances that measures are being taken to tackle insecurity.
HURIWA stated that Nigeria can no longer afford a security strategy centered mainly on statements, condemnations, and promises issued after attacks have occurred. The group emphasized that a reactive approach has proven ineffective, as similar attacks continue to occur. According to HURIWA, the government must move decisively from reactive responses to preventive security operations capable of identifying threats before they mature into massacres and mass abductions.
The association expressed concern over the recurring pattern of attacks, where communities are targeted, residents killed or abducted, and government officials issue condemnations, only for similar attacks to occur elsewhere. HURIWA warned that repeated attacks without timely arrests and successful prosecutions could embolden armed criminal groups and weaken public confidence in the ability of security agencies to protect citizens.
HURIWA demanded a measurable national security strategy with clearly defined responsibilities, timelines, and operational objectives. The group suggested that security performance should be assessed by the number of attacks prevented, abductees rescued, criminal networks dismantled, weapons recovered, and perpetrators prosecuted. This approach aims to ensure accountability and effectiveness in addressing insecurity.
The group also called for stronger coordination among the military, police, intelligence agencies, and other security institutions operating in vulnerable areas. Closer cooperation between federal and state authorities is necessary to address the root causes of insecurity. HURIWA urged authorities to pay particular attention to communities bordering forests and other difficult-to-access areas that criminal groups could exploit as operational bases.
Specifically, HURIWA cited concerns over the reported killing of at least 54 residents of Zikke village in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State. The association called for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack and the response of security agencies. This incident occurred barely two weeks after another attack in Plateau State in which 52 people were reportedly killed.
HURIWA also referenced concerns raised by Amnesty International over the Zikke attack, questioning the effectiveness of security measures announced by the government. The group emphasized that political activities ahead of the 2027 elections should not distract governments from their immediate responsibility of protecting citizens.
Key points
- HURIWA demands a preventive security strategy to address recurring attacks and abductions.
- The group calls for stronger coordination among security institutions and closer cooperation between federal and state authorities.
- A comprehensive investigation is sought into the Zikke village attack in Plateau State.
