The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, to expose and denounce the perpetrators of the politically motivated violence and killings in Kogi State, regardless of their social standing. HURIWA expressed concern over the recurring pattern of violence during elections in Kogi State and urged the IG to take preventive measures to avoid a repeat of such incidents in the upcoming November 2023 governorship election.
HURIWA spokesperson, Emmanuel Onwubiko, addressed journalists in Abuja, highlighting the resurgence of violence in Kogi as Governor Yahaya Bello’s eight-year tenure comes to an end in November. Onwubiko mentioned an incident where thugs attacked the campaign office of the Social Democratic Party’s governorship candidate, Murtala Ajaka, vandalizing the premises and setting a billboard on fire. He also referred to an earlier attack on Ajaka’s motorcade, where campaign vehicles were damaged, and followers were injured.
The group further noted that during the 2023 presidential and National Assembly elections in Kogi, there were reports of thugs attacking polling units and stealing voting materials. HURIWA reminded the public of the tragic killing of a PDP women leader, Salome Abuh, during the state’s governorship election in 2019, demanding justice for the perpetrators.
HURIWA called on the IG to conduct a comprehensive investigation into all politically motivated killings in Kogi State and ensure the arrest and prosecution of the suspects and their sponsors, regardless of their status in society. The group emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order and preventing political violence from disrupting the democratic process.
In a separate development, HURIWA organized a protest at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) against the planned demolition of Trademore Estate in Lugbe, Abuja. The estate is set to be demolished to mitigate the risk of flooding in the area. HURIWA denounced the planned demolition as arbitrary and unjust, stating that it would displace numerous families and worsen the housing crisis in the country.
HURIWA coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, led the protest, demanding that the FCTA reconsider its plans and explore alternative solutions to address flooding concerns without destroying people’s homes. He highlighted the housing shortage in Nigeria, with 28 million Nigerians lacking access to decent housing according to the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria.
HURIWA urged the Permanent Secretary of FCTA, Olusade Adesola, to halt the demolition plans immediately. They argued that Trademore Estate was approved by the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council in 2004 and had been a sanctuary for its residents for almost two decades.
The group also expressed concern over the frequent collapse of buildings in the FCT, citing a recent incident in Lifecamp. They called on FCTA officials to prioritize the safety and well-being of residents and conduct thorough investigations into these incidents.
In conclusion, HURIWA’s call for the IG to expose and prosecute perpetrators of political violence in Kogi State demonstrates their commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens’ rights. Their protest against the planned demolition of Trademore Estate reflects their concern for the well-being of residents and the need for alternative solutions to address flooding without displacing families. HURIWA’s activism highlights the importance of promoting justice, security, and the welfare of Nigerian citizens.
