Rights Group condemns Police’s abduction of Journalist

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned the Nigerian Police Force for the abduction of journalist Madu Onuorah, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Globalupfront Newspaper. Onuorah was arrested at his Abuja residence on May 22, 2024, by ten fully armed police officers who did not present an arrest warrant or provide any reason for the arrest.

“This alleged incident is part of a disturbing pattern of police brutality and suppression of free speech that has been on the rise in Nigeria,” said Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, National Coordinator of HURIWA. “The police officers’ actions are reminiscent of a Gestapo-like regime, rather than a democratic society.”

HURIWA described the incident as a blatant violation of human rights and freedom of the press, and called for Onuorah’s immediate and unconditional release.

“This is a clear case of police intimidation and harassment of a journalist who has been critical of the government,” said Onwubiko.

“We demand his immediate release and an end to this kind of impunity.”

The association criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his failure to address the issue and uphold the rule of law, stating that his silence raises serious questions about his commitment to democratic principles and human rights.

“The President’s inaction in this matter is unacceptable,” said Onwubiko. “He must take immediate action to address this situation and ensure that the police are held accountable for their actions.”

HURIWA also highlighted the President’s failure to appoint a governing board for the Police Service Commission (PSC) for over six months, which has left the commission without a quorum and a legally constituted board, rendering it ineffective.

“This lack of proper oversight emboldens the police to act with impunity,” said Onwubiko. “The PSC must be restored to its full functionality to ensure that the police are held accountable for their actions.”

The association called for an end to the practice of police kidnapping journalists on nebulous charges under the cybercrime laws, which are often misused to stifle dissent and free speech.

“These laws must be amended to reflect democratic ideals and protect the fundamental rights of all Nigerians,” said Onwubiko.

HURIWA reiterated its solidarity with all journalists and advocates for free speech in Nigeria, and called on the Nigerian government to uphold the rule of law and respect the rights and freedoms of its citizens, as enshrined in the Constitution.

“The immediate release of Onuorah and a thorough review of the PSC’s composition and cybercrime laws are essential steps toward restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s commitment to democracy and human rights,” said Onwubiko.

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