A stalwart civil rights organization, the Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS), has condemned the recent horrifying murder of security personnel on duty in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State.
The group has also extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of those personnel involved, saying it stands firmly against violence, while calling for swift justice for them.
Gunmen has attacked a joint security taskforce comprising the Army, the Police and the NSCDC and burnt eight officials of the JTF at Eke Nku, Umualumaku in Ehime Mbano LGA.
In what could be tagged a reprisal attack, soldiers of the Nigerian Army had on Thursday, burnt businesses, markets, shops, and hotels in Oriendu, Umualumaku Umueze, over the killing of eight of their colleagues and other security men in the area.
In a statement by the CEHRAWS Executive Director, Chuka Okoye on Friday, the group described the events that unfolded in Ehime Mbano, where dedicated security personnel lost their lives, as tragic.
The group however condemned what it called ‘distressing state-sponsored mass atrocity that followed, camouflaged as a reprisal attack.’
According to CEHRAWS, such action negates everything the security agents should represent.
“CEHRAWS finds itself compelled to address the distressing state-sponsored mass atrocity that followed, camouflaged as a reprisal attack.
“This approach, rooted in retaliation, stands as a deeply disturbing and primitive means of enforcing law and order.
“CEHRAWS categorically condemns such actions, recognizing that they not only violate human rights but also exacerbate the cycle of violence and mistrust within the region,” it said.
The group called on the governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, not to allow the aggrieved soldiers take revenge on his people, as a result of the actions of few criminal elements.
It said; “Drawing attention to a different response in Niger State, where a comparable incident occurred, CEHRAWS commends the governor’s proactive measures to protect the citizens following an attack on a military jet, allegedly by bandits.
“This responsible leadership prioritized the safety and well-being of the people, emphasizing dialogue and conflict resolution over vengeful actions.
“We urge Governor Uzodinma to emulate the responsible and compassionate leadership demonstrated by his counterpart in Niger State, as the chief security officer of his state.
“Rather than allowing the aggrieved security agents to resort to reprisal attacks that target innocent civilians of the said community. We implore the governor to prioritize the protection of his constituents and the restoration of peace within the affected community.”
The rights group called for a transparent and impartial investigation into the events that transpired in Ehime Mbano, to ensure swift apprehension and just prosecution of those responsible for the murder of security personnel.
“Justice, not retaliation, is the path toward enduring peace and stability within our cherished Southeastern region.
“CEHRAWS remains resolute in its commitment to advocating for human rights, justice, and an inclusive society for all. We earnestly call upon all stakeholders, including government authorities, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens, to join us in condemning violence, safeguarding human rights, and nurturing an environment of peace and reconciliation in the Southeast,” it concluded.
