HURIWA Laments Security Collapse Over Boko Haram's 72-Hour Ultimatum
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has voiced deep concern over what it describes as a deteriorating security breakdown across the country. This alarm follows a reported 72-hour ultimatum issued by Boko Haram concerning abducted victims in Borno State, which the group says signals a dangerous escalation in insecurity and a continued erosion of state authority.
Escalating Threats and State Weakness
In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA highlighted that the ultimatum, allegedly involving 416 abducted women and children in Borno State, demonstrates the growing boldness of terrorist organizations operating within Nigeria. Onwubiko emphasized that this development raises fundamental questions about the Nigerian state's capacity to protect its citizens and respond effectively to security threats.
He pointed out that the situation, combined with recent attacks on civilians and security operatives, indicates a broader collapse in the nation's internal security architecture. This includes incidents such as the attack on travelers along the Ore–Benin expressway, where a commercial driver was killed and passengers were abducted, showcasing worsening insecurity on major highways.
Widespread Violence and Public Vulnerability
Additionally, HURIWA referenced ongoing violent incidents in parts of Plateau State, particularly in Riyom and Barkin Ladi, where communities have endured repeated nighttime attacks resulting in deaths and injuries. Onwubiko stated, "We are witnessing a situation where armed groups are issuing ultimatums and operating with increasing confidence, while citizens are left vulnerable."
He questioned the effectiveness of Nigeria's security response, arguing that the inability to prevent abductions and repeated attacks reveals serious governance and operational gaps. Onwubiko warned that without urgent steps, this trend could further erode public confidence in state institutions.
Calls for Decisive Action and Modern Solutions
The group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate and decisive action to address the crisis, insisting that protecting lives and property remains the government's primary responsibility. HURIWA advocated for the deployment of modern surveillance technology along highways and in rural communities, as well as strengthened community-based security structures under proper regulation.
Onwubiko added, "The situation we are seeing today is a clear signal that urgent intervention is required. The safety of Nigerians must not be negotiable." He concluded that Nigeria is at a critical juncture where failure to act decisively could exacerbate the already fragile security environment.
