HURIWA Calls for Independent Probe Into Nigeria’s Security Failures, Warns Against Politicising Terrorism

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has called for the establishment of an independent judicial commission of inquiry to investigate Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, arguing that political debates over terrorism are distracting from the urgent need for accountability and effective action.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, HURIWA expressed concern over what it described as the growing tendency among some political leaders and public officials to interpret terrorist attacks through a political lens rather than addressing the root causes of insecurity.

The rights group warned that attributing attacks by terrorists and bandits to political calculations or electoral considerations risks undermining efforts to tackle violent extremism and protect citizens.

HURIWA said Nigeria already possesses sufficient legal frameworks to combat terrorism, including existing anti-terrorism laws, but lacks the necessary political will, intelligence coordination and accountability mechanisms needed to effectively enforce them.

As a result, the organisation urged the Federal Government to establish an independent judicial panel to examine the country’s security architecture and identify factors contributing to continued attacks despite significant spending on defence and security.

According to HURIWA, the inquiry should investigate intelligence gathering and information-sharing among security agencies, the use of surveillance technology, allegations of sabotage or collusion within security institutions, defence procurement processes, and the welfare and preparedness of security personnel.

The group further stated that any individual found to have aided terrorist groups, compromised security operations or engaged in corruption that weakened Nigeria’s security response should face prosecution.

HURIWA argued that accountability is essential to restoring public confidence and strengthening the nation’s fight against terrorists.

The organisation also cautioned politicians against introducing partisan considerations into national security discussions, insisting that terrorist groups pursue extremist and criminal objectives rather than political party agendas.

It noted that terrorist attacks have occurred during both election and non-election periods over the past decade, affecting communities across the country regardless of political affiliation.

HURIWA urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to identify and prosecute terrorists, their financiers, informants and collaborators while addressing corruption within the defence and security sectors.

The group stressed that defeating terrorism requires effective governance, modern intelligence capabilities, professional security operations and transparent management of resources.

According to HURIWA, Nigerians deserve tangible improvements in security and greater accountability from institutions responsible for protecting lives and property.