The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA has written to the United Nations Human Rights Council, UNHRC, to investigate allegations of genocide against the Igbo people by the Nigerian Army.
The group was reacting to accusations levelled by the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB against the Army, saying they are not entirely baseless.
HURIWA’s call comes amid escalating concerns over the spate of kidnappings and violence in the South-East geo-political region, particularly in the Ihiala axis of Anambra State, which has been dubbed the ‘Sambisa Forest of the South-East’.
“The dense forests in this region have reportedly become notorious for harbouring criminal elements, including kidnappers, who have turned these areas into terror zones. Victims who manage to survive the ordeal recount harrowing experiences, including torture, maiming, and in some cases, death even after ransom payments.
“The dead bodies of those less fortunate, along with their personal belongings, often litter the forests where they were held captive.
“These kidnappers reportedly operate with impunity in areas like Ihiala, Lilu, Orsumoghu, and other surrounding communities, despite efforts by security agents to comb the forests and engage in gun battles with the criminals. The vast forest stretch, known locally as ‘Mother Valley’ and other nicknames, spans over 700 hectares and is largely inaccessible, making it a haven for these criminal activities.
“Residents live in constant fear, with some communities abandoned or deserted due to the persistent threat posed by these criminal elements”.
In a Press statement, HURIWA revealed that it has consistently supported the Nigerian government’s efforts to restore peace and stability in the South-East.
The organization acknowledged the devastating impact of the ongoing violence, which has led to widespread loss of lives and destruction of property.
However, HURIWA is deeply concerned about the methods employed by security agencies, which have allegedly resulted in the indiscriminate killing of innocent Igbo youths under the pretext of hunting down IPOB members.
The rights group pointed out that the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which should ideally conduct such investigations in Nigeria, lacks the independence required for an impartial investigation.
HURIWA argued that the NHRC, a federal government agency, is not in a position to assess the situation objectively, hence the need for a high-powered investigative team from the UNHRC.
While HURIWA supports the federal government’s initiative to restore security and stability in the South-East, it stresses that the government must also protect innocent civilians.
The group condemned the killing of security personnel and attacks on national security assets but raised concerns about the lack of clarity regarding the identities of those responsible for these attacks.
“Each time an attack occurs, the Nigerian Armed Forces are quick to blame IPOB, but the official IPOB leadership often denies involvement.
“In some instances, factions within IPOB, which the mainstream group has distanced itself from, claim responsibility. This confusion underscores the need for a thorough investigation to ascertain the truth”.
