By Hussaini Ibrahim Sulaiman
The Human Rights Research and Advocacy Centre (HURRAC) has called for caution in the implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to arrest those responsible for the recent killings in Benue State.
In a press statement issued on Thursday in Kano, the organisation’s National Coordinator, Zubair Muhammad Esq., welcomed the President’s concern and response but warned against the misuse of power by security agencies.
“We must strongly urge caution in the implementation of this directive,” Muhammad said. “Nigeria’s history is replete with tragic consequences when security agencies act without restraint.”
He cited past military invasions in Zaki Biam, Benue State, and Odi, Bayelsa State, where attempts to arrest culprits led to mass destruction, extrajudicial killings, and widespread human suffering.
“The call for justice must never become a license for impunity,” he added, insisting that security operations must be intelligence-led, proportionate, and carried out in line with constitutional provisions and international human rights standards.
HURRAC called on the Federal Government to establish clear guidelines for any operations in Benue, ensure civilian oversight, protect non-combatants—especially women, children, and the elderly—and work with local communities and human rights groups to achieve justice through reconciliation, not vengeance.
“Our nation is at a critical juncture. We must demonstrate that security and human rights are not mutually exclusive,” Muhammad said.
He stressed that justice must be pursued without compromising the values the country stands to defend.