By Abdullahi Sarki
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for intensified military coordination to secure the release of 52 children and other Nigerians reportedly held by terrorists in Borno State, even as it acknowledged recent counter-terrorism gains by the Nigerian Army.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, on Monday, HURIWA said the reported repulsion of an attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on the Forward Operating Base in Mandaragirau, Biu Local Government Area, demonstrated the importance of sustained military pressure on terrorist groups.
The association said troops of the 162 Amphibious Battalion, operating under Operation Hadin Kai, successfully defended the base, reportedly neutralising several terrorists and recovering weapons and military equipment.
However, HURIWA said battlefield successes should ultimately be judged by their impact on civilian safety, particularly the ability of security agencies to rescue victims of terrorism and restore security to affected communities.
The group urged the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, to strengthen coordination with the Chief of Defence Staff, other Service Chiefs and intelligence agencies to locate and rescue the 52 children and other victims who have reportedly spent about 90 days in captivity.
HURIWA described the prolonged captivity as both a humanitarian and national security concern. It noted reports that some affected families had allegedly resorted to selling houses and other property in anticipation of ransom demands.
The association also raised concern over alleged fraudsters exploiting the families’ desperation by posing as representatives of abductors and demanding money.
It therefore called for a coordinated government response involving intelligence gathering, military operations, regular communication with affected families and measures to prevent ransom-related fraud.
HURIWA further urged the Army, Air Force, Navy, police and relevant intelligence agencies to strengthen intelligence-sharing and joint operations aimed at locating the victims.
The association said the rescue effort should remain a priority within the national security architecture.
“We commend the Nigerian Army and, particularly, the troops of Operation Hadin Kai for their courage and professionalism in confronting the terrorists at Mandaragirau.
“However, the objective of counter-terrorism operations is not simply to defeat terrorists in combat but to protect citizens and restore their freedom and security.
“We therefore urge the Chief of Army Staff and other Service Chiefs to intensify their collaboration and intelligence-driven operations aimed at locating and rescuing the 52 children and other Nigerians who have reportedly spent about 90 days in captivity.
“Every additional day in captivity exposes these victims, particularly the children, to unacceptable risks. Their rescue should therefore be treated as an urgent humanitarian and national security priority.”
HURIWA also appealed to residents of affected communities to provide credible information to security agencies while avoiding the circulation of unverified information that could compromise operations or endanger hostages.
The group urged the Federal Government to maintain communication with affected families and provide appropriate support throughout the search.
HURIWA said the ultimate measure of counter-terrorism success should be the protection of civilians, restoration of peace and the safe return of Nigerians held in captivity.
