The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed strong concerns over the lack of transparency surrounding the trial and prosecution of terrorism suspects in Nigeria. The group accused the government of mishandling the process, asserting that the entire spectacle is shrouded in secrecy, raising doubts about the credibility and accountability of the ongoing trials.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, HURIWA criticized the government for providing limited information about the trials of Boko Haram and other terrorism suspects. It noted that the trials, reportedly held at facilities like the Kainji detention center, have been devoid of public oversight, with no credible reportage or journalistic observation to corroborate claims of convictions or acquittals.

?While the government claims to have prosecuted and convicted hundreds of terrorism suspects, no Nigerian citizen or reliable journalist has seen these trials take place. The process has been reduced to a press statement scribbled by the Office of the National Security Adviser or the Attorney General, leaving Nigerians in the dark about the proceedings,? HURIWA stated.

The association emphasized that democracy requires transparency and accountability, especially in the prosecution of crimes as grave as terrorism. It cited global examples, such as the trials of detainees at Guantanamo Bay, where journalists are allowed to witness proceedings under controlled conditions, ensuring credibility and public trust.

?Even in the United States, where Guantanamo Bay houses some of the world?s most dangerous terrorists, journalists are granted access to observe trials and report to the public. This allows citizens to believe in the system and ensures accountability. In Nigeria, however, the government tries terrorism suspects off-camera and without any independent observers. This is unacceptable,? HURIWA declared.

The group accused the government of running the country like a secret society by withholding critical information from citizens. It argued that the sovereignty of Nigeria belongs to its people, as enshrined in the Constitution, and that citizens have the right to know how those who unleash monumental violence on their communities are being prosecuted.

HURIWA stressed that the ongoing secrecy undermines trust in the judicial process and leaves room for doubt about whether the trials are even taking place. ?We are not advocating for live coverage of these trials due to potential security concerns, but there must be provisions for judicial correspondents and credible media representatives to witness the proceedings and report to Nigerians. This will ensure believability and credibility in the process,? the group stated.

The association also criticized the lack of commitment from government officials to allow transparency. It argued that press statements from the Office of the National Security Adviser or the Attorney General of the Federation are insufficient to reassure Nigerians that justice is being served.

HURIWA expressed particular concern for the victims of terrorism, especially those in the North East, North West, and Abuja, who have borne the brunt of attacks by Boko Haram and other militant groups. ?These victims deserve to know that the killers of their families and communities are being held accountable. The government?s lackadaisical attitude toward these trials is a disservice to them and to all Nigerians,? the group stated.

The association called on the government to comply with Section 22 of the Nigerian Constitution, which mandates the press to monitor governance and ensure the accountability of public officials. It argued that excluding journalists from such critical trials is a violation of this constitutional provision and a denial of the public?s right to information.

?The media plays a critical role in a democracy by providing oversight and ensuring transparency. Allowing journalists to cover the prosecution of terrorists will build public confidence in the justice system and show that the government is serious about addressing the scourge of terrorism,? HURIWA stated.

The group also questioned the government?s approach to deradicalization and reintegration programs for former terrorism suspects. It expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of programs like Operation Safe Corridor, where individuals deemed not guilty are rehabilitated and reintegrated into society.

HURIWA urged the government to prioritize the interests of Nigerian citizens by providing full disclosure about the trials and ensuring that credible media houses are present to observe and report on the proceedings. It emphasized that Nigeria?s sovereignty and legitimacy are derived from its citizens, and withholding critical information from them is a breach of trust.

In its conclusion, HURIWA reiterated that the trial of terrorism suspects must not be conducted in secrecy. It called on the government to open the process to journalists and ensure that Nigerians are informed about the steps being taken to address terrorism and bring perpetrators to justice.

?Secrecy breeds suspicion. The government must take deliberate steps to restore trust in its handling of terrorism trials by allowing credible media coverage. Nigerians deserve transparency, accountability, and justice, not a hidden spectacle that raises more questions than answers,? HURIWA concluded.

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