The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda for endorsing peace deals between communities and bandits, accusing him of supporting terrorism. The prominent pro-democracy and civil rights advocacy group warned that such approval undermines counter-terrorism laws and jeopardizes national security.

In a statement endorsed by the National Coordinator Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, HURIWA lamented that Governor Radda’s commendation of communities for holding peace deals with bandits during his tour of Batsari and Danmusa local councils is tantamount to backing terrorists. The group emphasized that any peace talks leading to non-prosecution of terrorists for crimes against humanity and bloodshed are delegitimized and criminalized by Nigeria’s extant counter-terrorism law. Onwubiko stated, “It is unfortunate that in some sections of Nigeria, those who swore oaths of office and pledged allegiance to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria are the same persons now putting up defensive propositions and approving meetings with terrorists who have declared war against the Sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

The Rights group quoted the governor as saying that the peace deal entered into with bandits has yielded positive results in councils affected by insecurity, citing his recent drive through the dreaded Danburum forest in Batsari Local Council, once a haven for bandits. With the deal, farming and related activities are gradually picking up in the area. However, HURIWA blasted the governor and charged security forces to investigate him for statements tantamount to providing support for terrorists. The group called for the implementation of counter-terrorism laws to logical conclusions, noting that supporting terrorism carries severe penalties, including at least 20 years imprisonment or death under the Terrorism (Prevention) Act.

HURIWA also highlighted the ongoing security crisis, stating that over 7,000 citizens are held hostage by Fulani terrorists in bushes across seven states, mostly in North-West Nigeria. Despite the federal government’s declaration of a state of security emergency, terrorist attacks have continued, with thousands killed or displaced. Onwubiko expressed disappointment, saying, “To say that we are disappointed with the Katsina state governor is to put it mildly. We are calling for his investigation and for the Intelligence community to put the governor on their watch list of individuals suspected to have openly canvassed support for terrorists.”

The Rights organization detailed abduction statistics, noting that in Niger state, 265 persons from St. Mary’s Catholic school in Papiri are still captive, while in Kwara, a monarch and others were recently abducted. In Sokoto state, public analyst Altine Guyawa informed that 500 residents are held across 13 local government areas, describing it as a humanitarian disaster. Zamfara state reportedly has over 6,000 kidnapped victims in captivity in forest camps. HURIWA advocated for massive counter-insurgency measures to defeat terrorists, emphasizing that Nigerians are tired of excuses from politicians and the National Security Adviser. Emmanuel Onwubiko reiterated the need for resolute action to rescue abducted citizens and uphold the rule of law.