By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the torture of a University of Jos student, John Arum Azi, describing the incident as a grim reflection of Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and demanding urgent action against kidnappers.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, the group said it was “outraged and deeply concerned over the horrifying video showing a University of Jos student… being tortured by armed bandits after his abduction along the Kaduna–Jos highway.”

HURIWA described the incident as “a new low in the escalating crisis of insecurity in Nigeria,” noting that the victim was forced to plead for his life in a video circulated by his captors.

“This disturbing incident… represents a new low… It is a grim reminder that criminal elements now operate with brazen impunity, exploiting the weakness of state response and the absence of deterrence,” the statement read.

The group said the development is part of a growing pattern, citing recent abductions of students travelling for examinations.

“This tragedy is not isolated… young Nigerians are increasingly being targeted simply for pursuing education. This is unacceptable and reflects a catastrophic failure of governance,” HURIWA stated.

The organisation also criticised the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alleging inadequate response to insecurity.

“The Association is deeply troubled by what appears to be the lack of decisive and forceful leadership… in confronting terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers who have turned vast parts of the country into killing fields and ransom economies,” it said.

HURIWA further questioned the role of the National Assembly, accusing lawmakers of failing to enact urgent legislation to tackle kidnapping.

“Why has there been no urgency to pass comprehensive legislation that ensures swift justice for kidnappers? Why are trials prolonged endlessly while victims suffer and perpetrators regroup?” the group asked.

It also raised concerns about the financial dimension of kidnapping, querying why security and financial agencies have not tracked ransom payments.

“Kidnapping has become a structured criminal enterprise. Until its financial architecture is dismantled, it will continue to thrive,” the statement added.

HURIWA called for immediate measures including the establishment of special anti-kidnapping courts, enhanced financial surveillance, deployment of security forces to highways, and the use of advanced technology to combat the crime.

“The torture of a young student and the abduction of examination candidates must serve as a wake-up call… The protection of lives is the primary responsibility of government,” it said, insisting that the situation demands “courage, urgency, and accountability—not silence, excuses, or delay.”

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