The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for the immediate and safe rescue of 19 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members abducted in Imo State. In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, HURIWA urged the Federal Government to deploy its full intelligence and security capabilities to secure their release. The group emphasized that the reported discovery of the kidnappers' forest hideout and the presence of improvised explosive devices around the camp made the rescue operation an urgent national security priority.
According to HURIWA, the location of the kidnappers' hideout provides an opportunity for security agencies to intensify intelligence-led efforts to rescue the victims while avoiding actions that could endanger their lives. The association called on the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services, and Nigerian Air Force to establish a coordinated rescue command involving specialists with expertise in hostage rescue, explosive ordnance disposal, intelligence gathering, and jungle operations. This, HURIWA believes, will ensure a successful rescue operation.
HURIWA stressed that the reported explosive devices around the hideout should be handled by specialists while efforts to locate and secure the hostages continue. The group demanded that security agencies must not allow the mined forest terrain to become an excuse for prolonged delay in rescuing the victims. Furthermore, HURIWA urged the security agencies to maintain continuous surveillance and intelligence operations around the area to prevent the abductors from moving the victims or harming them.
The rights group also called for the establishment of a secure perimeter around the suspected hideout and the sealing of possible escape routes. It urged the security forces to use all lawful means available to isolate the kidnappers while creating a safe corridor for the recovery of the hostages. Additionally, HURIWA called for the deployment of bomb-disposal experts and suitable armored equipment to deal with the reported explosive threats before any ground operation is attempted.
HURIWA insisted that the safety of the hostages must remain the overriding consideration throughout the operation. The association also urged the government and security agencies to establish a dedicated communication channel for the victims' families, stressing the importance of regular and credible information during the rescue effort. This, HURIWA believes, will help alleviate the anxiety and uncertainty faced by the families.
Beyond the immediate rescue, HURIWA urged security agencies to investigate the abduction and identify the alleged perpetrators and their collaborators. The association said the operation should not end with the release of the hostages, but rather with the apprehension and prosecution of those responsible. Furthermore, HURIWA called for comprehensive support for the victims once they are rescued, including medical, psychological, and welfare assistance.
The organisation maintained that the latest incident should not be treated as an isolated kidnapping case, arguing that security concerns involving corps members have persisted for years. Against this backdrop, HURIWA renewed its call for a comprehensive review of the NYSC scheme to ensure the safety of young Nigerians participating in the national service programme. The group emphasized that the immediate priority, however, should remain the rescue of those currently in captivity.
Key points
- HURIWA demands immediate and safe rescue of 19 abducted NYSC members in Imo State.
- The group urges the Federal Government to deploy full intelligence and security capabilities to secure their release.
- HURIWA calls for a comprehensive review of the NYSC scheme to ensure the safety of young Nigerians participating in the national service programme.
