HURIWA Critiques Tinubu's Security Approach as Ineffective

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has denounced the alarming frequency of terrorist assaults nationwide, asserting that the persistent deaths of soldiers, security personnel, and civilians highlight the failures in the federal government's security strategy.

In a statement released by the National Coordinator, Emmanuel Obwubiko, in Abuja on Sunday, the civil rights organization indicated that the latest surge in deadly incidents, spanning from Plateau State to the North-East, reflects a disintegration of Nigeria’s counterterrorism framework under the administration of President Bola Tinubu. They cautioned that without prompt structural reforms, the nation might plunge deeper into turmoil.

HURIWA's remarks came in light of reports revealing that around 20 security personnel and local vigilantes were killed in an ambush by heavily armed bandits in the Wanka region and nearby areas in the Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State.

As per the Kanam Development Association, the fatalities included 12 members of security forces, among whom were two senior military officers, alongside eight vigilante members who were actively supporting security efforts in safeguarding at-risk communities.

The joint patrol unit was reportedly performing routine security checks across the Garga, Kyaram, and Gyambau areas in two vehicles when they were attacked by a large group of bandits near Wanka around 2:00 p.m. on Friday, leading to a fierce gunfight that resulted in numerous casualties among the operatives.

HURIWA characterized this occurrence as a “tragic and alarming national security failure,” arguing that the deaths of trained soldiers and high- ranking military officials at the hands of non-state actors serves as a critical warning that the current counterterrorism strategy is ineffective.

Additionally, the group drew attention to more reports of deliberate attacks in Plateau State, including a brutal incident where traders traveling to a market in the Barikin Ladi axis were killed.

In the earlier incident, it was reported that gunmen established makeshift checkpoints, questioning vehicle occupants about their identities before unleashing gunfire on those confirming they were Hausa traders.

HURIWA further referenced reports noting that at least 65 Nigerian soldiers were claimed by coordinated attacks from insurgents identified as members of the Islamic State West Africa Province in the North-East over a recent fortnight.

The insurgents allegedly overwhelmed several military strongholds in Borno State, leading to the deaths of numerous soldiers and the abduction of many civilians while employing advanced weaponry including anti-aircraft guns and drones.