The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has praised Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for establishing a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the violence and destruction that followed the local government elections.
HURIWA described this move as a crucial step toward identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators, whom they refer to as “political terrorists”.
The commission, chaired by Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, aims to uncover the root causes of the unrest and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
HURIWA stressed that the individuals behind the violence are not mere vandals but political terrorists determined to destabilize the state’s democratic institutions.
HURIWA also expressed dissatisfaction with President Bola Tinubu’s response, criticizing his remarks for lacking statesmanship.
The group argued that the President should have explicitly identified those responsible for the violence instead of shifting the narrative onto Governor Fubara.
Additionally, HURIWA criticized Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun for failing to provide security during the elections and for compromising his neutrality.
The group issued a seven-working-day ultimatum for the IGP to arrest and prosecute those responsible for the violence.
HURIWA warned that if the IGP fails to act, they will initiate an international campaign to impose visa bans on him. The group remains committed to achieving justice within Nigeria but will seek international redress if necessary.
In closing, HURIWA reaffirmed its support for Governor Fubara’s actions, stating that the judicial commission of inquiry is essential in restoring peace and preventing Rivers State from becoming a theater of lawlessness.
