The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has urged the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate whether political motives underlie the recent wave of killings and abductions in Southern Kaduna. The call comes after a series of violent incidents that have left residents fearing for their lives and livelihoods.
HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, said the timing of the attacks was “particularly concerning” given that Governor Uba Sani recently selected a Christian from Southern Kaduna as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election. While the association is not drawing conclusions, it insists that the circumstances warrant an urgent intelligence investigation.
The most recent attack occurred on Wednesday, 4 November, when a community in Akwando, Kachia Local Government Area, was targeted. Two people were killed and 20 residents were abducted, according to the Kuturmi Unity Development Association (KUDA). The incident was reported by KUDA President Joseph Ariko and Publicity Secretary Hon. Manasseh Akwando.
HURIWA also recalled earlier violence, including an Easter Sunday assault on the Ariko community that claimed five lives on the scene and an additional 17 victims who died in captivity. An attack on Awon community left two people dead and 11 others abducted, with some later released while others reportedly died in captivity.
Beyond the immediate violence, the association raised concerns that armed groups are imposing illegal levies on residents and restricting access to ancestral farmlands. HURIWA called for the immediate rescue of the 20 abducted from Akwando and for the deployment of adequately equipped security forces to Akwando, Ariko, Awon and other vulnerable communities. It also demanded permanent security posts, regular patrols, early‑warning mechanisms and coordinated operations to recover abducted residents.
Despite its alarm, HURIWA praised Governor Uba Sani for his efforts to combat terrorism and restore security in Kaduna State. The group urged the governor to maintain engagement with security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to strengthen peace‑building. It further appealed to President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Inspector‑General of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff and the DSS Director‑General to treat the renewed attacks as a national security priority and to provide humanitarian assistance to displaced residents, survivors and families affected by the violence.
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
