The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for the immediate rescue of a Catholic seminarian and another worshipper abducted by gunmen during Sunday Mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Inoyi, Affa, in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.
In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the rights group condemned the attack, describing the invasion of a place of worship as a reprehensible act that threatens the safety and religious freedom of citizens.
HURIWA expressed concern over what it described as the growing audacity of criminal elements in Enugu State, warning that the incident raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of existing security measures.
The association urged the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to launch a coordinated operation to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
According to the group, every passing hour increases the danger facing the abducted victims, making swift security intervention imperative.
HURIWA also called on the Enugu State Government to strengthen efforts to safeguard lives and property by enhancing intelligence gathering, expanding surveillance in vulnerable communities and improving collaboration with security agencies, local vigilante groups and community leaders.
The organisation appealed to residents to remain vigilant, provide credible information to security agencies and avoid taking the law into their own hands while rescue efforts continue.
HURIWA expressed solidarity with the Catholic Church, the families of the abducted victims and the people of Affa community, while praying for the safe and unconditional release of those held in captivity.
The group stressed that attacks on places of worship pose a serious threat to public safety and undermine Nigerians’ constitutional right to practise their faith without fear of violence or intimidation.
