The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has held a strategic engagement with the National Vice Chairman (South East) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, to deliberate on issues of governance, security, and development in the South East. The meeting focused on reviewing the performance of the APC-led governments in Ebonyi and Imo states, as well as proffering solutions to the region?s persistent security challenges.

During the meeting, HURIWA?s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, who led the group, commended the Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, for his decisive action in exposing and curbing corruption in the state. He lauded the governor for personally intercepting and ordering the arrest of senior government officials allegedly caught stealing government property, including critical materials such as patients? data registers and hospital cards, from a warehouse in Abakaliki. The officials were reportedly attempting to sell the items without government approval.

HURIWA?s Onwubiko described the governor?s move as a commendable step toward accountability and transparency in governance, stating, ?It is rare to see a governor physically intervening to halt the looting of government resources. This act of vigilance deserves recognition, as it sets a standard for public officials. However, we urge the government to ensure that those arrested are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others.?

Turning to Imo State, HURIWA applauded Governor Hope Uzodimma for his efforts in rehabilitating critical infrastructure, particularly federal roads within the state. The group acknowledged the reconstruction of the Owerri-Orlu and Owerri-Okigwe dual carriageways, describing them as some of the worst federal highways in the history of Nigeria before their rehabilitation. According to HURIWA, these projects, reportedly funded by the Imo State government, have significantly improved transportation and economic activities in the state.

The association, however, expressed concern over the lingering insecurity in Imo State and other parts of the South East, which has resulted in widespread human rights abuses and instability. HURIWA highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive and lawful approach to end the violence, especially in Imo State, which has been one of the hardest-hit regions in recent years.

HURIWA praised Governor Uzodimma for his recent announcement of a mechanism to encourage armed non-state actors hiding in the bushes to surrender their weapons in exchange for pardon, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society. While commending this initiative, the group called for a structured legal framework to solidify the program.

?We urge the Imo State government to work with the State House of Assembly to pass legislation that will provide a robust legal framework for negotiating with armed non-state actors. This will not only legitimize the initiative but also ensure its sustainability and effectiveness,? HURIWA said.

The association stressed that security restoration in the South East should be a priority, given the region's strategic importance and the devastating impact of the ongoing violence on lives and property. It further highlighted the need for collaboration between political leaders, security agencies, and local communities to address the root causes of insecurity and rebuild trust.

In response, Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogu assured HURIWA of his commitment to conveying their concerns and recommendations to the governors of Ebonyi and Imo states. He reiterated the APC?s resolve to restore peace and security across the South East, emphasizing that the party remains a ?beautiful bride? in the region, with growing support from residents.

Dr. Arodiogu also expressed confidence in the ability of the APC-led administrations to address the region's challenges, promising that the party will continue to prioritize the welfare of citizens and ensure that governance translates into tangible benefits for the people.

HURIWA concluded the meeting by reaffirming its commitment to advocating for human rights, good governance, and sustainable development in the South East and across Nigeria. The group urged the federal government and all stakeholders to intensify efforts to restore security and stability in the region.

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