RismadarVoice Reporters
September 27, 2026
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has expressed concern over reported killings and mass abductions in Plateau, Zamfara and Niger states, calling for stronger preventive measures to protect vulnerable communities.
HURIWA, in a statement on Sunday, said recurring attacks across parts of the country continued to raise questions about the effectiveness of existing security measures.
The organisation called on the Federal Government and security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, surveillance, community-level security and rapid-response mechanisms.
“Nigeria cannot afford a security strategy based principally on statements, condemnations, and promises after attacks have already occurred,” the group said.
HURIWA’s concerns followed reports of renewed violence in Plateau State, where at least 54 people were reported killed after armed attackers invaded Zikke village in Bassa Local Government Area.
Reports said children and elderly residents were among the victims, while homes were burnt and property looted during the attack.
HURIWA called for a comprehensive investigation into the attack, including an assessment of available intelligence and the response of security agencies.
“Those responsible for the killings must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” the organisation said.
The group also questioned the effectiveness of the dusk-to-dawn curfew imposed in Barkin Ladi, Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas following earlier violence.
The Plateau State Government restricted movement as part of measures aimed at maintaining public order and addressing emerging security threats.
HURIWA maintained that restrictions on movement alone would not adequately protect communities without stronger intelligence, patrols and rapid security intervention.
“A curfew cannot, by itself, constitute a comprehensive security strategy,” the group said.
In Zamfara State, HURIWA expressed concern over an attack on Tsafe, headquarters of Tsafe Local Government Area.
Five residents were reportedly abducted after armed men entered the town and attacked residential buildings.
HURIWA also called for clarification of conflicting figures surrounding the August 21 mass abduction in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
Communities in Dekara District have released a list containing 547 names of people they say were abducted during attacks on several communities.
The figure differs significantly from the 63 victims previously cited by the Niger State Government, comprising 33 people reportedly abducted from a mosque and another 30 from a nearby market.
Police initially confirmed that an unspecified number of worshippers had been abducted during the August 21 attack and said security personnel had been deployed for rescue operations.
More recent reporting has also documented protests by residents demanding the release of hundreds of people they say remain in captivity.
HURIWA said the conflicting figures should be urgently reconciled to establish the number of missing people and strengthen efforts to locate them.
“The discrepancy must be urgently investigated and resolved because the issue concerns human lives and the whereabouts of hundreds of Nigerian citizens,” the group said.
The organisation called for stronger coordination among federal and state security agencies, improved intelligence sharing and more effective protection for communities vulnerable to attacks.
It also urged political leaders to ensure that preparations for the 2027 general elections did not divert attention from their responsibility to protect citizens.
“Nigerians deserve more than condolences after tragedy. They deserve a security system capable of preventing tragedy in the first place,” HURIWA said.
