HURIWA URGES IGP TO TACKLE BAIL EXTORTION, PROBE SONG THREATENING ENUGU CHRISTIANS

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the Inspector-General of Police to address alleged extortion involving police bail and investigate a song reportedly containing threats against Christians in Enugu State.

The group said the allegations require urgent attention from the police leadership to protect citizens’ rights, strengthen public confidence in law enforcement and prevent possible threats to public safety.

HURIWA expressed concern over reports of alleged extortion in the handling of police bail, stressing that the process should not become an avenue for officers to demand money unlawfully from suspects or their relatives.

Police bail is an important safeguard within the criminal justice system, allowing eligible suspects to be released from custody while investigations continue. The organisation maintained that the process must be administered in accordance with the law and without unlawful financial demands.

The group urged the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that complaints of bail extortion are investigated and that officers found culpable face appropriate disciplinary or legal action. It also called for stronger oversight and accessible complaint channels for members of the public.

Separately, HURIWA called for an investigation into a song allegedly threatening Christians in Enugu State. The organisation said the reported content should be examined to establish whether it constitutes a genuine threat, incitement to violence or another offence under Nigerian law.

The call comes amid continuing concerns about religious tensions and the potential for inflammatory content to heighten fear or provoke hostility within communities. HURIWA stressed the importance of responding to credible threats through lawful investigations rather than allowing allegations to fuel further division.

The group urged security agencies to establish the origin, context and intended meaning of the song, identify those responsible where necessary and take appropriate action based on the findings.

It also called on community leaders and residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information that could worsen tensions while investigations are pending.

The organisation maintained that protecting citizens from unlawful treatment and credible threats should remain a priority for law enforcement authorities.

The police response to the allegations will be important in determining the facts of both matters and reinforcing public confidence in the ability of security agencies to uphold the law and protect fundamental rights.