HURIWA praises Rivers State for its steadfast pursuit of justice in recent arson cases, as the judicial commission approaches its final recommendations.
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended the Rivers State Government, under Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s leadership, for its efforts as the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the arson attacks on Local Government Areas (LGA) Secretariats approaches completion.
Following the successful local government elections, these attacks posed a serious threat to the democratic process. HURIWA is urging for complete accountability to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
In a statement by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, the rights group noted that Governor Fubara had inaugurated the Judicial Commission led by Hon. Justice Ibiwengi Minakiri with a clear mission: to investigate killings, acts of arson, and damage to local government properties and provide an extensive report.
The association pointed out that the Commission, consisting of seven esteemed members, was allocated one month to finalize its inquiry and provide recommendations.
Since its inception, the Commission has been proactive in collaborating with affected local government areas by performing on-site evaluations alongside media presence. These documented assessments involved trips to impacted LGAs like Eleme, Ikwerre, Emohua, Obio/Akpor, and Khana where significant damage from looting, arson incidents and explosions was observed. Throughout these visits Justice Minakiri reiterated the Commission’s commitment to transparency and diligence while urging complete cooperation from both local councils and communities.
HURIWA reported that Justice Minakiri, in a press statement, highlighted the significant impact on Eleme LGA. The council’s losses were so substantial that its headquarters nearly became non-operational. Similarly, Ikwerre and Emohua councils faced severe structural damage and property loss, making it challenging to resume normal operations.
As the Commission nears the conclusion of its investigation, HURIWA criticized the involvement of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) in contributing to security lapses that enabled these attacks.
The association condemned the unexplained removal of police security from the affected LGAs shortly before and on the day when newly elected council officials took office. HURIWA characterized this move as a serious neglect of responsibility, resulting in a security lapse that encouraged those behind the violence.
Describing the security withdrawal as an “ignominious and unconstitutional act,” HURIWA cautioned that this neglect of democratic duties could tarnish the current IGP’s legacy. Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, emphasized the importance of accountability from security agencies responsible for protecting Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
HURIWA highlighted the expectation among Nigerians for a just and unbiased report from the Commission. The organization conveyed confidence that under Justice Minakiri’s leadership, the Judicial Commission would fulfill public expectations by delivering a thorough analysis of the incidents surrounding the attacks. HURIWA trusted in both the professionalism and integrity of panel members, anticipating their findings would uncover what motivated these acts of violence.
“The individuals of Rivers State, along with every Nigerian, have the right to be informed of the truth,” HURIWA declared. They urged the Commission to identify all those responsible for these attacks. The association emphasized that justice must address not only property destruction but also loss of life and disruption caused by this violence.
HURIWA praised Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his courageous decision to set up the Judicial Commission of Inquiry, despite the investigation’s sensitive nature and the complex political environment. The governor’s dedication to transparency and accountability has established a benchmark for other states dealing with similar democratic challenges.
HURIWA commended Governor Fubara for showing a strong commitment to combating impunity by permitting the Commission to work without interference. They encouraged him to stay steadfast as the Commission prepares its final report, emphasizing the importance of promptly acting on its findings.
With the Commission’s work nearing its conclusion, HURIWA urged the Rivers State Government to remain dedicated to implementing its recommendations. The association emphasized that true reforms and accountability rely on prompt and decisive actions. This will be a critical test of the government’s commitment to justice and upholding the rule of law.
Furthermore, HURIWA called on the Rivers State government to ensure accountability for those responsible for security lapses and to reassess the involvement of federal law enforcement in protecting local elections. Restoring public confidence in the local administration, according to HURIWA, necessitates a strict commitment to justice and democratic principles.
The rights group stated that the conclusion of the Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry is a crucial development with major implications for governance and safeguarding democratic institutions. They expressed optimism that this will lead to uncovering the truth, achieving justice, and ultimately strengthening the local government system.
“HURIWA concluded that Governor Fubara’s commitment to tackling these pressing issues, along with the anticipated fairness of the Judicial Commission, indicates Rivers State is progressing toward a more accountable and secure future. The association and concerned citizens are keenly awaiting the Commission’s final report and the government’s subsequent response.”
