Enough Is Enough, HURIWA Decries Rising Political Intimidation in Imo

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised alarm over what it described as a growing wave of politically motivated violence and intimidation in Imo State, warning that the situation threatens the foundations of democratic governance.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the group said recent developments in parts of the state point to a pattern of harassment and suppression targeted at opposition elements.

HURIWA specifically drew attention to incidents reported in Ideato North and Ideato South Local Government Areas, where it alleged that supporters of a political movement linked to a federal lawmaker, Honourable Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, have faced repeated attacks and disruptions.

According to the group, the incidents go beyond routine political disagreements and reflect a troubling descent into lawlessness.

“What is unfolding in Imo State is not merely a political disagreement. It is a dangerous descent into lawlessness, where democratic freedoms are being systematically eroded through force, fear, and impunity,” the statement said.

The organisation expressed concern over claims that armed individuals, reportedly operating under the cover of vigilante groups, have been used to intimidate and disperse political gatherings.

It said there were also allegations of attempts to seize venues for lawful meetings and destruction of property belonging to individuals engaged in political activities.

HURIWA warned that such actions, if left unchecked, could undermine constitutional rights and weaken public confidence in democratic institutions.

It called on the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, to take urgent steps to guarantee the safety and rights of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.

“The Governor must not preside over a system where dissent is treated as a crime and opposition voices are violently silenced,” the group stated.

HURIWA stressed that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of association, peaceful assembly and participation in governance, noting that these rights are fundamental and not subject to the discretion of any authority.

“Sovereignty belongs to the people of Nigeria, from whom government derives all its powers and legitimacy,” it added, warning that any attempt to suppress these rights is unconstitutional and unlawful.

The group also held that the state government bears ultimate responsibility for maintaining law and order, insisting that it cannot claim ignorance of the reported incidents.

It cautioned that continued violence could attract both national and international scrutiny.

Beyond the political tensions, HURIWA also referenced concerns raised by Amnesty International regarding alleged abuses at the “Tiger Base” facility in Owerri, operated by the Nigeria Police Force.

It said the report detailed serious violations, including prolonged detention without trial, torture, extortion, enforced disappearances, and the separation of children from their mothers without proper documentation.

The group described the allegations as deeply disturbing and incompatible with Nigeria’s legal and moral obligations.

“These practices are a direct violation of Nigeria’s Constitution and the Anti-Torture Act of 2017, as well as international human rights standards,” HURIWA said.

It called for an immediate, independent and transparent investigation into the allegations, with a view to prosecuting those found culpable and dismantling any structures that enable such abuses.

HURIWA further urged key federal authorities to intervene swiftly to prevent further escalation of tensions in the state.

It specifically called on the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, and the Minister of Defence to take coordinated action to protect lives and property.

The group emphasised that political competition must not be allowed to degenerate into violence and repression.

“Democracy is not sustained by intimidation or force. It thrives on tolerance, accountability and respect for the rule of law,” the statement said.

HURIWA demanded an immediate end to all forms of political intimidation and violence, as well as the withdrawal of armed groups from political spaces.

It also called for the protection of lawful political gatherings and the prosecution of individuals involved in acts of violence and arson.

The organisation warned that Nigeria risks sliding into instability if urgent steps are not taken to address the situation.

“Enough is enough,” it declared, insisting that the rights of citizens must be upheld at all times.

For HURIWA, the developments in Imo State serve as a reminder that safeguarding democratic freedoms requires constant vigilance and a firm commitment to justice by all stakeholders.