Group calls for Buhari’s arrest following revelation of atrocities in S/East

Following a joint research investigation that allegedly revealed a distressing narrative of violence, insecurity, and grave human rights violations in Igbo Land since January 2021, with President Muhammadu Buhari’s government coming under intense scrutiny leading to startling revelations, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for the arrest of the former president.

The investigation, carried out by the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law in collaboration with the Ekwenche Research Institute and the Global Igbo Leaders Coalition, accused the Buhari-led government of orchestrating a wave of insecurity, radical Islamism, and deadly politics in the region.

In a strongly worded press release on Monday, HURIWA left no room for ambiguity, called for urgent action against what they described as “gross human rights violations” and urged the Nigerian authorities to arrest and put President Buhari on trial for his alleged involvement in the reported atrocities.

They stressed that if domestic mechanisms fail to deliver justice, the relevant international bodies, including the International Criminal Court (ICC), should intervene to ensure accountability.

Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, emphatically stated:

“The joint research investigation has illuminated a troubling landscape across Igbo-controlled states, including Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Ebonyi, Abia, Delta, and Rivers.

“The allegations are chilling, suggesting that insecurity, radicalism, and lethal political agendas have taken root, resulting in devastating consequences for the local populace.

“Both government security forces and government-linked armed entities are implicated in alleged unlawful killings, arson, and other deeply disturbing acts that have left communities shattered.

“The findings brought to light by this joint research investigation are a jolt to our collective conscience. The allegations that armed entities linked to the government have perpetrated unlawful killings, conflagrations, and other grave crimes cannot be dismissed.

“We demand an immediate, comprehensive investigation into these allegations, followed by swift and decisive action to ensure that all those responsible are held accountable.”

Intensifying their advocacy beyond the realm of rhetoric, HURIWA rallied Nigerian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the formidable Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, to join forces in their quest for justice.

HURIWA left no doubt about its intent, stressing that if local mechanisms falter in delivering justice, the organization is prepared to take the matter to international platforms, including the International Criminal Court (ICC), to ensure that justice is not compromised, a position that underscores HURIWA’s unwavering belief that accountability must prevail, serving as a beacon of hope for the victims and their aggrieved families.

“Our impassioned call to action resonates with the anguish felt by Nigerians across the nation.

“The alleged situation presents a profound challenge, one that demands a rigorous examination of Nigeria’s human rights landscape and security infrastructure.

“The calls for action echo far beyond Nigeria’s borders, as the international community watches closely, eager to see how the Nigerian government will respond to these deeply disturbing allegations.

“As Nigeria grapples with the gravity of the accusations, it is faced with a defining moment that will shape its stance on human rights, justice, and accountability.

“The allegations have thrust Nigeria into the global spotlight, prompting calls for transparency, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to human rights from international observers and human rights organizations.

“The unfolding narrative serves as a stark reminder of the urgency of safeguarding human rights, promoting justice, and preserving the rule of law.

“The fervent call for the arrest of President Buhari is not just an isolated demand but a resounding echo of the global quest for justice and accountability.

“As Nigeria navigates these turbulent waters, the nation’s commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring justice will define its moral compass, both on the domestic front and within the international community”, revealed HURIWA in a statement that radiates urgency and moral conviction. Read more.

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