HURIWA condemns government’s secrecy in terrorism trials, calls for transparency

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has sharply criticized the Nigerian government for its lack of transparency in the prosecution of terrorism suspects, describing the situation as “unacceptable.”

The group raised concerns over the secrecy surrounding trials of individuals linked to Boko Haram and other militant groups, asserting that the government’s approach undermines public trust and accountability.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, HURIWA highlighted the absence of public oversight in these trials, many of which are reportedly conducted in facilities like the Kainji detention center.

The organization questioned the credibility of government claims about prosecuting and convicting hundreds of terrorism suspects, citing the lack of independent journalistic reporting or credible evidence to substantiate these assertions.

 “While the government claims to have prosecuted and convicted hundreds of terrorism suspects, no Nigerian citizen or reliable journalist has witnessed these trials. Instead, Nigerians are left with press statements from the Office of the National Security Adviser or the Attorney General,”

HURIWA stated. The group emphasized that democracy thrives on transparency, particularly in matters as critical as terrorism trials, and accused the government of operating like a “secret society.”

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HURIWA pointed to international practices, such as trials at Guantanamo Bay, where journalists are allowed to observe proceedings under strict conditions. This transparency, the group argued, ensures accountability and public trust in the judicial process.

“In the United States, journalists are granted controlled access to trials involving terrorism suspects. This practice reinforces credibility in the justice system. In contrast, the Nigerian government conducts these trials behind closed doors without any independent observers, which is unacceptable,” HURIWA declared.

The association urged the Nigerian government to allow credible journalists and judicial correspondents to witness these trials, noting that such access would enhance trust in the judicial system. While acknowledging potential security concerns, HURIWA emphasized that this transparency is vital for credibility.

“We are not advocating for live broadcasts of these trials, but credible media representation is essential to ensure the believability of the judicial process. Press statements alone cannot convince Nigerians that justice is being served,” the statement read.

HURIWA also criticized the government’s approach to deradicalization and reintegration programs for former terrorism suspects, such as Operation Safe Corridor. The group expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of these initiatives and urged the government to prioritize the interests of victims and citizens by ensuring justice are visibly served.

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The organization expressed solidarity with victims of terrorism, particularly those in the North East, North West, and Abuja, who continue to bear the brunt of attacks. HURIWA argued that the government’s opaque handling of trials denies these victims the assurance that perpetrators are being held accountable.

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“These victims deserve to know that justice is being served for the atrocities committed against their communities. The government’s lack of transparency is a disservice to them and to all Nigerians,” HURIWA asserted.

Citing Section 22 of the Nigerian Constitution, which mandates the press to monitor governance and hold public officials accountable, HURIWA argued that excluding journalists from terrorism trials is a violation of constitutional provisions.

The group called on the government to fulfill its obligation to ensure that Nigerians are informed about the handling of terrorism cases.

“Secrecy breeds suspicion. The government must take deliberate steps to restore trust in its handling of terrorism trials by allowing credible media coverage. Nigerians deserve transparency, accountability, and justice,” HURIWA concluded.