The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended the Rivers State Government, led by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, for its dedication to justice as the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into a series of arson attacks on Local Government Area (LGA) Secretariats nears its final report. The attacks, which occurred shortly after successful local elections, threatened the democratic process in the state. HURIWA has called for full accountability to prevent future incidents.
HURIWA highlighted the formation of the Judicial Commission, chaired by Hon. Justice Ibiwengi Minakiri, which was mandated to investigate the violence, including arson, destruction, and the killing of local government officials. The seven-member panel was given one month to complete its investigation and submit findings. The association emphasized that the Commission has been thorough in its work, conducting site visits and on-the-ground assessments in the presence of the media, covering impacted areas such as Eleme, Ikwerre, Emohua, Obio/Akpor, and Khana.
Justice Minakiri expressed concern over the extensive damage, particularly in Eleme LGA, where the destruction left the council nearly non-functional. Other areas, like Ikwerre and Emohua, also suffered significant property and structural damage, delaying the return to normal operations. Throughout the inquiry, the Commission urged local councils and communities to cooperate fully, emphasizing a commitment to transparency and thorough investigation.
As the Commission’s conclusion drew near, HURIWA criticized the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) for the security lapses that facilitated the attacks. The association condemned the sudden withdrawal of police security from the LGAs shortly before the new council officials took office, calling it an “unconstitutional dereliction of duty.” HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, emphasized the need for accountability from security agencies entrusted with protecting Nigeria’s democratic institutions, warning that the IGP’s inaction would be a lasting blemish on his record.
HURIWA underscored the public’s expectation for a transparent and fair report from the Commission. The association trusts in the professionalism of Justice Minakiri and his team to provide a comprehensive account of the events, including the individuals or groups behind the violence. It urged the panel to address not only the material damages but also the loss of lives and the disruption caused by the attacks.
HURIWA also praised Governor Fubara for establishing the Commission, acknowledging the courage required given the political complexities of the situation. The association noted that the governor’s hands-off approach allowed the Commission to operate without interference, demonstrating a commitment to transparency. As the final report approaches, HURIWA encouraged Governor Fubara to remain steadfast in his pursuit of justice and to act swiftly on the Commission’s recommendations.
With the inquiry nearing its end, HURIWA called on the Rivers State Government to prioritize the implementation of the findings, stressing that decisive actions will be critical in restoring public trust and strengthening the local government system. The association urged the state to address the security failures that allowed the violence and to reassess the involvement of federal law enforcement in local elections.
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HURIWA concluded by stating that the end of the Commission’s work is a crucial moment for governance in Rivers State, with significant implications for democracy. The association is optimistic that the report will lead to accountability and a more secure local government system, reinforcing Rivers State’s commitment to justice and the rule of law.
