The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of Asari Dokubo, the former leader of the Niger Delta militants. The group accuses Dokubo of engaging in violent activities in the South-East region, including operating a private army, which contravenes Nigerian law.
In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA expressed grave concern over Dokubo’s admission of leading a private militia. Dokubo has claimed that his group has conducted operations in both the North and South-East. HURIWA is urging the federal government to investigate Dokubo’s alleged involvement in the violence in the South-East during the presidency of Muhammadu Buhari.
The group pointed out that despite video evidence showing Dokubo with military-grade weapons, there has been no action from the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), or other security agencies. HURIWA criticized the selective application of justice, noting that while figures like IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu face legal challenges, no transparent investigation has been launched into Dokubo’s actions.
HURIWA has set a 72-hour deadline for the federal government to arrest and investigate Asari Dokubo. Should this demand not be met, the group has threatened to organize nationwide protests. This ultimatum highlights HURIWA’s frustration with the government’s perceived inaction on these serious allegations.
The call from HURIWA has reignited discussions about security challenges in the South-East, with the group demanding a transparent and independent investigation into the region’s violence to ensure accountability and justice.
