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The Human Rights Writers’ Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for the immediate arrest of former President Muhammadu Buhari over alleged atrocities committed in Imo State by terror groups and allegedly backed by him during his tenure as president.
A disturbing narrative of violent attacks, insecurity, and significant human rights violations in Igbo land since January 2021 was uncovered by an investigation by three NGOs in the UK and the USA, with the Buhari administration coming under intense scrutiny.
The Eastern Updates reports that the investigation, carried out by the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law in collaboration with the Ekwenche Research Institute and the Global Igbo Leaders Coalition, accused the Buhari-led government of orchestrating a wave of insecurity by radical Islamists, and deadly politics in the region.
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In a strongly worded statement on Monday, HURIWA called for Buhari’s arrest, leaving no room for ambiguity as the group urges urgent action against what they described as ‘gross human rights violations’.
It added that if the reported atrocities cannot be addressed via domestic mechanisms, other relevant international bodies, including the International Criminal Court (ICC) should be called to intervene to ensure accountability.
National Coordinator of HURIWA, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, said, “The joint research investigation has illuminated a troubling landscape across Igbo-controlled states, including Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Ebonyi, Abia, Delta, and Rivers.
‘The allegations are chilling, suggesting that insecurity, radicalism, and lethal political agendas have taken root, resulting in devastating consequences for the local populace. Both government security forces and government-linked armed entities are implicated in alleged unlawful killings, arson, and other deeply disturbing acts that have left communities shattered.
‘The findings brought to light by this joint research investigation are a jolt to our collective conscience. The allegations that armed entities linked to the government have perpetrated unlawful killings, conflagrations, and other grave crimes cannot be dismissed. We demand an immediate, comprehensive investigation into these allegations, followed by swift and decisive action to ensure that all those responsible are held accountable.’
Intensifying their advocacy beyond the realm of rhetoric, HURIWA rallied Nigerian non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the formidable Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, to join forces in their quest for justice.
‘Our impassioned call to action resonates with the anguish felt by Nigerians across the nation. The alleged situation presents a profound challenge, one that demands a rigorous examination of Nigeria’s human rights landscape and security infrastructure. The calls for action echo far beyond Nigeria’s borders, as the international community watches closely, eager to see how the Nigerian government will respond to these deeply disturbing allegations.
‘As Nigeria grapples with the gravity of the accusations, it is faced with a defining moment that will shape its stance on human rights, justice, and accountability. The allegations have thrust Nigeria into the global spotlight, prompting calls for transparency, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to human rights from international observers and human rights organisations.
‘The unfolding narrative serves as a stark reminder of the urgency of safeguarding human rights, promoting justice, and preserving the rule of law. The fervent call for the arrest of President Buhari is not just an isolated demand but a resounding echo of the global quest for justice and accountability.
“As Nigeria navigates these turbulent waters, the nation’s commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring justice will define its moral compass, both on the domestic front and within the international community.
