TDPro-democracy and civil rights advocacy group, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has expressed deep disappointment over the failure of both the Federal and State Governments to rescue 177 worshippers abducted by terrorists in Kaduna more than three weeks ago.
HURIWA described the situation as unfortunate and unacceptable in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko.
The group stated that the inability of the Nigerian State, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to protect lives and property amounts to a violation of constitutional responsibility.
HURIWA noted that the Constitution clearly defines the protection of citizens as the primary duty of government.
The group warned that continued failure in this regard reflects the traits of a failed state.
Attacks On Churches, Claims and Denials Over Payments
Comrade Onwubiko recalled that on Sunday, January 18, terrorists attacked three churches in Kaduna State.
During the attacks, 177 worshippers were violently abducted. The victims included men, women, children, and the sick.
The rights group blamed the Kaduna State Government for allegedly reaching a truce with terrorists.
HURIWA argued that such arrangements may have emboldened criminals.
The group questioned whether funds allegedly paid to terrorists had been exhausted, leading to renewed attacks and fresh kidnappings.
Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, previously alleged that ₦1 billion was paid to terrorists to halt attacks.
The Kaduna State Government denied the claim. Former Senator Shehu Sani also refuted the allegation.
Eyewitness Account from Escapee Cum Initial Denial by CP
A church official, Yunana Adauji, who escaped captivity, described the incident.
He said the attack occurred around 9:30 a.m. during Sunday worship when the terrorists arrived in large numbers, heavily armed.
They gathered worshippers and threatened to shoot anyone who attempted to escape.
Victims were forced into the bush, including children and sick persons recovering at home.
The condition of the abducted persons remains unknown, as HURIWA lamented that the incident was initially denied by local authorities.
The Police Commissioner reportedly described the reports as false.
However, community members documented the names of the abducted victims.
These records were shared with journalists.
Call For Sanctions Against Police Commissioner
Onwubiko expressed shock that weeks after the incident, the Police Commissioner has not faced any sanctions.
The group accused the police of misleading the public and the international community.
HURIWA called on the Police Service Commission to sanction the Kaduna State Police Commissioner for professional misconduct.
Demand For Immediate Security Action
HURIWA urged the military and police to intensify rescue operations.
The group called for urgent collaboration among:
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The Chief of Defence Staff
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The Chief of Army Staff
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The Inspector-General of Police
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The Director-General of the DSS
HURIWA demanded the safe rescue of all abducted worshippers and the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.
The group stressed that Nigerian lives must be sacred and protected.
Attack On Agwara Community, Security Lapses in Niger State
Onwubiko also condemned the terrorist invasion of Agwara Town, Niger State.
The attackers burnt down the Divisional Police Station.
They raided a church and abducted at least five persons on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
According to media reports, the attackers arrived around 4:00 a.m.
They engaged police officers in a gun battle. They later set the police station on fire.
The terrorists proceeded to the UMC Church, abducted residents, and burnt part of the church.
HURIWA described the incident as shameful and indicative of weak security architecture.
Ungoverned Spaces, Vigilante Question, and Call To Action
HURIWA warned that these attacks highlight the growing presence of ungoverned spaces in Nigeria.
The group questioned why the Niger State Government has not empowered civilian vigilantes to support security forces.
HURIWA strongly condemned the persistent terrorist attacks across the country.
The group denounced the systematic targeting of Christians and the destruction of churches.
HURIWA called on the Federal Government to act decisively to end the violence.
Thousands of Nigerians have lost their lives to these avoidable attacks, it noted.
The group insisted that those responsible for security must implement effective and practical strategies immediately.
