HURIWA calls for DSS probe as gunmen kill 2, abduct 20 in Kaduna

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate “possible political motives” behind the renewed killings and abductions in Southern Kaduna.

HURIWA expressed concern over the timing and recurrence of attacks in the area, particularly following reports that Governor Uba Sani had picked a Christian from Southern Kaduna as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election.

The association, in a statement issued on Friday by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, said although the group was not jumping to conclusions, the circumstances surrounding the attacks required urgent intelligence investigation.

It urged the DSS to establish whether there was any connection between emerging political developments and the renewed violence, adding that anyone found sponsoring attacks to destabilise the state should be identified and brought to justice.

The association said the latest attack on Akwando community in Kachia Local Government Area, where two persons were reportedly killed and 20 abducted on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, had heightened fears among residents.

HURIWA also recalled that an Easter Sunday attack on Ariko community claimed five lives at the scene, while another 17 victims reportedly died in captivity.

HURIWA said an attack on Awon community also left two persons dead and 11 others abducted, with some victims later regaining their freedom while others reportedly died in captivity.

The group further expressed concern over allegations that armed groups were imposing illegal levies on residents and restricting their access to ancestral farmlands.

It described such actions, if established, as violations of fundamental human rights and threats to the livelihoods of affected communities.

HURIWA demanded the immediate rescue of the 20 residents abducted from Akwando and other victims still being held captive.

Despite its concerns, the association commended Governor Sani for his efforts to tackle terrorism and restore security in Kaduna State.

HURIWA acknowledged the administration’s collaboration with security agencies and its position against granting terrorists impunity for their atrocities.

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HURIWA urged the governor to sustain engagements with security institutions, traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to strengthen peace-building efforts.

It also called on residents, irrespective of their religious, ethnic and political affiliations, to support the governor’s initiatives towards restoring lasting peace in the state.

HURIWA urged 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 an urgent national security concern.

It called for the deployment of adequately equipped security personnel to Akwando, Ariko, Awon and other vulnerable communities, as well as the establishment of permanent security posts, regular patrols and effective early-warning mechanisms.

The association also demanded coordinated security operations to rescue abducted residents, investigations into alleged extortion and restrictions on access to farmlands, and prosecution of those found responsible.

It further called for humanitarian assistance to displaced residents, survivors and families affected by the attacks.

HURIWA warned political actors against exploiting insecurity to promote religious division, ethnic hostility or electoral interests, insisting that the people of Southern Kaduna deserved to live, farm and worship without fear of being killed or abducted.

It said the state’s peace-building efforts must be matched with effective protection of vulnerable communities, accountability and respect for fundamental human rights.