The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has leveled serious allegations against the government, asserting that it is sympathetic to terrorists. This claim comes in the wake of revelations by EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, exposing a religious body’s alleged involvement in money laundering for terrorists. Expressing deep concern, HURIWA questioned the transparency of the government, including the EFCC and the Attorney General, accusing them of compromising national security by withholding critical information.

In a strongly-worded press release on Thursday, the association demanded full disclosure, stressing its importance for national security and urging adherence to the Freedom of Information Act. HURIWA drew parallels between the EFCC’s actions and recent remarks by the Attorney General, insinuating a government sympathetic to terrorists.

Additionally, HURIWA criticizes the government’s refusal to name and shame financiers of terrorism, countering Attorney General Mr. Lateef Fagbemi’s argument of potential interference with ongoing investigations. The association argued that withholding such crucial information is counterproductive to the fight against terrorism.

“Why is the government withholding the names of those responsible for causing pain, deaths, and economic instability in the country? The government should publicly identify and prosecute them according to the law. We find it surprising that, despite claiming to have discovered sponsors of insecurity, the government has not taken legal action against them.

“In addition, keeping the sponsors secret raises concerns about protecting criminals. It is time for the government to expose these individuals, end the delays, and address the suffering of Nigerians. The repetition of promises to reveal the names of Boko Haram sponsors adds to the skepticism; actions, not just words, are needed to restore public trust”, HURIWA contended.

Highlighting the significance of full disclosure, HURIWA emphasized its integral role in the Freedom of Information Act. However, the association expressed concern about the government’s failure to respond to legal requests, fostering a culture of secrecy detrimental to the fight against terrorism. HURIWA contended that effective counterterrorism involves publicly identifying and isolating perpetrators.

“The importance of full disclosure is emphasized as an integral aspect of the Freedom of Information Act. However, despite the availability of legal mechanisms like FOI requests, government offices are failing to respond, fostering a culture of secrecy. This inclination towards secrecy, especially concerning terrorists and their sponsors, is hindering the fight against terrorism. Effective counterterrorism involves publicly identifying and isolating perpetrators rather than maintaining secrecy.

“More so, the recent remarks by the Attorney General of the Federation, who declared the government’s decision not to disclose the identities of terrorism sponsors while acknowledging awareness of their existence aligns with the actions of the EFCC chairman, suggesting a pattern that implies government sympathy towards terrorists”, HURIWA explained.

HURIWA’s press release signed by the National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, also condemned the alleged descent into dictatorship by CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, accusing him of gross incompetence, economic sabotage, and constitutional violations. HURIWA criticized the CBN Governor for allowing the Naira to free-fall and issuing contradictory policies, portraying a concerning level of unchecked power.

In a call to action, HURIWA urged Nigerians to speak out against the perceived arrogance of the CBN Governor, emphasizing that no individual should be considered bigger than the country. The association demanded strict adherence to CBN laws and efforts to uplift the value of the Naira, essential to the institution’s existence.

“The current Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has blatantly disregarded the institution’s core functions, particularly its duty to defend the Naira, the national currency. Instead of safeguarding the Naira, the CBN Governor has allowed it to free-fall, reaching an alarming rate of almost 2000 Naira per dollar. This amounts to economic sabotage, a continuous failure that demands urgent rectification.

“Moreover, the CBN Governor’s approach is marred by contradictory policies, creating confusion within the banking sector. His inconsistent directives to banks today and different ones tomorrow suggest unchecked power, raising concerns about the compromised state of the National Assembly’s ability to control him.

“We urge Nigerians to exercise their collective will and speak out against the perceived arrogance of the CBN Governor, emphasizing that no individual, regardless of their position, should be considered bigger than the country. This call is for strict adherence to the laws governing the CBN and a concerted effort to uplift the value of the Naira, which is fundamental to the existence of the CBN.

“Furthermore, the CBN Governor has violated another crucial function of the CBN – serving as the Banker to the Government of the Federation. The relocation of over 1500 CBN staff to Lagos is a direct contravention of constitutional provisions that designate the Federal Capital Territory as the seat of government. This move, perceived as an attempt to fragment the CBN, is deemed unconstitutional”.

Finally, HURIWA called on lawyers of conscience to challenge the alleged constitutional breach by the CBN Governor, asserting that the collapse of the Naira and the deteriorating economy indicate his incompetence. The association emphasized the urgent need for legal action to address these alarming situations.

The rights group called on the government to prioritize transparency, uphold the rule of law, and take immediate steps to address alleged sympathies towards terrorists and the economic challenges posed by the CBN Governor.

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