By Kazeem Waris
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, following the reported killing of two persons and abduction of 20 others in Akwando community, Kachia Local Government Area.
The rights advocacy group also demanded the immediate rescue of the abducted residents, urging President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to intensify operations to prevent further attacks on vulnerable communities.
In a press statement issued on Friday, November 6, 2026, and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, HURIWA expressed concern over what it described as the timing and recurrence of attacks in Southern Kaduna, particularly following Governor Uba Sani’s reported decision to nominate a Christian from the area as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election.
The association, however, cautioned against drawing premature conclusions, insisting that security agencies must investigate whether any political interests are connected to the renewed violence.
HURIWA said the DSS should establish whether the attacks are linked to emerging political developments and identify any individuals or groups found to be sponsoring violence.
“The DSS should establish whether any connection exists between the emerging political developments and the attacks. If evidence points to political sponsorship or deliberate attempts to destabilise the state, the security agency must identify those responsible and take proactive steps to prevent further bloodshed,” the organisation stated.
The latest attack on Akwando community, which reportedly occurred on Wednesday, November 4, left two people dead, while 20 residents were allegedly abducted by armed attackers.
The incident was disclosed by the Kuturmi Unity Development Association (KUDA), through its President, Joseph Ariko, and Publicity Secretary, Hon. Manasseh Akwando.
HURIWA also recalled previous attacks on communities in the area, including the Easter Sunday assault on Ariko, where five people were reportedly killed at the scene, while another 17 victims allegedly died in captivity.
An attack on Awon community was also reported to have claimed two lives, with 11 residents abducted. Although some victims subsequently regained their freedom, others reportedly died in captivity.
The association expressed further concern over allegations that armed groups were imposing illegal levies on residents and restricting their access to ancestral farmlands, describing such actions as threats to livelihoods, freedom of movement and property rights.
HURIWA commends Ubani Sani
Despite its concerns over the security situation, the organisation commended Governor Uba Sani for his administration’s efforts to tackle terrorism and restore peace in Kaduna State.
It particularly acknowledged the governor’s reported cooperation with security agencies and his position against granting terrorists’ impunity for attacks on innocent citizens.
HURIWA urged the governor to sustain engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders, community representatives and security institutions to strengthen peace-building efforts.
It also appealed to residents, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation, to support legitimate government initiatives aimed at restoring security.
The rights group called on 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 challenge.
Demands
Among its demands are an immediate DSS investigation into possible political sponsorship of the attacks, deployment of adequately equipped security personnel to Akwando, Ariko, Awon and other vulnerable communities, and coordinated operations to rescue the 20 abducted residents.
It also demanded permanent security posts, regular patrols, effective early-warning systems and a thorough investigation into allegations of extortion and restrictions on access to ancestral farmlands.
The organisation further called for humanitarian assistance to displaced residents, survivors and affected families, alongside regular consultations between government officials and community leaders.
HURIWA warned political actors against exploiting insecurity to promote religious divisions, ethnic hostility or electoral interests.
“Kaduna State must not be allowed to slide backwards after efforts to rebuild confidence, promote peaceful coexistence and strengthen security cooperation,” the group stated.
It maintained that Governor Sani’s peace-building efforts deserved public support but stressed that such initiatives must be matched with effective protection of vulnerable communities and accountability for human rights violations.
The association insisted that residents of Southern Kaduna must be able to live, farm, worship and pursue their livelihoods without fear of killings, abductions or displacement from their ancestral homes.
