Outrage As HURIWA Slams Assassination Attempt On Natasha, Demands Urgent Probe

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly denounced the attempted assassination of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing it as a shocking assault on Nigeria’s democratic fabric.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA expressed grave concern over the attack which occurred early Tuesday at the Senator’s family home in Obeiba-Ihima, Okehi LGA of Kogi State.

According to counter-insurgency analyst Zagazola Makama, the Senator’s Chief Security Officer, Yakubu Ovanja, promptly alerted security agencies following the incident.

The attackers, wielding cutlasses and firearms, reportedly struck at around 1:00 a.m., vandalizing property and smashing windows. However, the timely intervention of operatives from the Okehi Police Division prevented further damage. No injuries were reported, although the assailants escaped and remain unidentified. Investigations are ongoing, and motives are still unclear.

Reacting to the incident, HURIWA demanded a thorough probe and swift prosecution of the perpetrators. The group also called on the Inspector General of Police and DSS Director General to bolster security around Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, warning that any harm to her would pose a serious threat to national peace.

“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is a fearless defender of democracy and equality in Nigeria,” the statement read. “An attack on her is an attack on the very principles of our constitutional democracy.”

HURIWA also cited earlier claims by the Senator regarding threats to her life. While it acknowledged it couldn’t independently verify those claims, it emphasized the urgent need for security agencies to act swiftly and impartially.

The group concluded by urging political actors to shun violence and resolve disputes lawfully to maintain stability in Nigeria’s political landscape.