•Urges Gov. Mbah to prioritise security over propaganda

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned the brazen invasion of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Inoyi, Affa, in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State by armed kidnappers who reportedly abducted a Catholic seminarian and another worshipper during Sunday Mass.

HURIWA described the attack on a place of worship as a despicable act of terrorism against innocent and unarmed citizens, warning that the growing audacity of criminal gangs in Enugu State raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of the state’s security architecture.

The rights group called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to launch an immediate, coordinated operation to rescue the kidnapped victims alive and unhurt, while ensuring that those responsible for the attack are tracked down, arrested and prosecuted without delay.

HURIWA said every passing hour increases the danger facing the victims, stressing that security agencies must treat the rescue operation as a matter of utmost national urgency.

The association also challenged the Enugu State Government to intensify practical measures to protect lives and property across the state instead of concentrating on public relations campaigns that portray the security situation as being fully under control.

“It is no longer enough to issue reassuring statements while criminal elements continue to strike communities, highways, and even churches. The safety of citizens must take precedence over propaganda. The government must confront the reality on the ground and respond with decisive security measures,” HURIWA stated.

The group urged Governor Peter Mbah to strengthen intelligence gathering, increase security surveillance in vulnerable communities, and work more closely with federal security agencies and local stakeholders to prevent further attacks.

HURIWA further appealed to residents to remain vigilant, cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing credible intelligence, and avoid taking the law into their own hands while security operations continue.

The association expressed solidarity with the Catholic Church, the affected families, and the people of the Affa community, praying for the safe and Immediate release of the abducted seminarian and the other victim.

HURIWA warned that attacks on places of worship threaten not only public safety but also the constitutional right of Nigerians to freely practise their religion without fear.

The association therefore demanded the immediate and unconditional rescue of all those abducted and urged the Enugu State Government and security agencies to reassure residents through concrete action rather than official rhetoric.