The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has accused President Bola Tinubu of failing to effectively address the worsening security situation in the country following fresh attacks in parts of Kwara State.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, on Sunday, the group expressed outrage over the reported invasion of Yashikira community in Baruten Local Government Area, where armed attackers allegedly burnt the Emir’s palace and abducted several residents, including women and children.
HURIWA described the incident as a disturbing sign of growing insecurity across the country, warning that criminal groups appear to be operating with increasing boldness in several northern communities.
The rights group said the latest attack, alongside other recent incidents in Kwara and neighbouring states, reflects what it called a dangerous deterioration of public safety under the current administration.
According to the association, the Federal Government appears more focused on political activities ahead of the 2027 elections than on confronting insecurity and protecting vulnerable communities from attacks by terrorists and bandits.
“It is disgraceful that while innocent Nigerians are being killed, abducted and displaced, political actors are already consumed by power struggles and early election calculations,” the statement said.
HURIWA also referenced reports of another attack in Kwara State involving worshippers during a night vigil, expressing concern over what it described as increasing attacks on rural communities, churches, schools and travellers across several states.
The group argued that the frequency and coordination of such attacks suggest that criminal networks are becoming more emboldened due to weak responses from authorities.
It further accused the Federal Government of failing to adequately prosecute terrorism sponsors and dismantle criminal networks operating across vulnerable border and forest regions.
The association warned that continued insecurity could further erode public confidence in the ability of the state to protect citizens, adding that communities may increasingly resort to self-help measures if urgent steps are not taken.
HURIWA therefore called for the declaration of a security emergency in affected communities, the deployment of additional security personnel to vulnerable areas, and stronger intelligence coordination among security agencies.
The group also demanded the rescue of abducted victims and urged the Federal Government to prioritise national security over political activities.
“Nigeria cannot continue this way. Citizens are tired of speeches and excuses while insecurity continues to spread,” the statement added.
The Federal Government has repeatedly stated that security agencies are intensifying operations against terrorists, bandits and kidnappers across the country.