The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to investigate allegations of ethnic cleansing and genocide against the Igbo people by the Nigerian Army.
The group highlighted concerns raised by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), urging an impartial and independent investigation.
HURIWA’s appeal comes amid growing fears over kidnappings and violence in the South-East, particularly in Anambra State’s Ihiala area, notorious for harboring criminal activities.
The group condemned the indiscriminate killing of innocent Igbo youths by security forces under the guise of targeting IPOB members and expressed doubt in the National Human Rights Commission’s ability to conduct an objective investigation.
HURIWA also raised concerns about the activities of individuals like Asari Dokubo, who claimed to run a private army with government support, calling for his arrest and investigation.
The rights group questioned the transparency of the government’s actions in the South-East, demanding a thorough investigation by the UNHRC to hold accountable those responsible for human rights violations.
In addition, HURIWA called for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, criticizing the government’s failure to provide evidence linking him to the violence in the region, and condemned the National Assembly’s inaction in addressing the ongoing crisis.
The group stressed that only an independent international investigation could ensure justice and accountability.
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“The dense forests in this region have reportedly become notorious for harboring criminal elements, including kidnappers, who have turned these areas into terror zones. Victims who manage to survive the ordeal recount harrowing experiences, including torture, maiming, and in some cases, death even after ransom payments. The dead bodies of those less fortunate, along with their personal belongings, often litter the forests where they were held captive.
“These kidnappers reportedly operate with impunity in areas like Ihiala, Lilu, Orsumoghu, and other surrounding communities, despite efforts by security agents to comb the forests and engage in gun battles with the criminals.
The group questioned how a private individual could be allowed to operate a private army, which is unconstitutional in Nigeria. HURIWA urged the government to investigate the allegations that some of the killings in the South-East during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari were carried out by Dokubo’s so-called private army.
The group is particularly concerned about the video footage showing Dokubo brandishing sophisticated military-grade weapons, which no private individual in Nigeria is legally permitted to possess. Despite these serious allegations, there has been no action taken by the Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), or any other security outfit.