The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has given President Bola Ahmed Tinubu three weeks to set up an independent judicial commission to probe alleged killings, disappearances, torture and arbitrary arrests in the South-East.
HURIWA warned that it may engage Amnesty International over a possible petition to the International Criminal Court (ICC) if the Federal Government fails to act.
The group cited allegations contained in recent Amnesty International findings, including claims of deaths, enforced disappearances, torture and abuses linked to security operations in the region.
HURIWA said allegations surrounding the police Anti-Kidnapping Unit, known as Tiger Base in Imo State, require an independent investigation rather than official denials.
The organisation also called for investigations into claims of unlawful arrests, extortion and the alleged use of IPOB or ESN labels to justify arrests or killings.
HURIWA stressed that the allegations are not being presented as proven facts and that those accused must be given due process.
The group said its proposed investigation should identify victims and alleged perpetrators and recommend compensation and other remedies where wrongdoing is established.
HURIWA said its accountability campaign would also cover the Imo State Government and Governor Hope Uzodimma, while stressing that the call for investigation does not amount to a declaration of guilt.
The group urged the National Assembly, National Human Rights Commission, Nigerian Bar Association and civil society organisations to support an independent probe.
