HURIWA Demands DSS, IGP Probe of Song Threatening Massacre in Enugu, Prosecution for Incitement

PRESS STATEMENT

Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA)

HURIWA Demands DSS, IGP Probe of Song Threatening Massacre in Enugu, Prosecution for Incitement

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) calls on the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to urgently investigate a disturbing song allegedly threatening an armed attack on Christians in Enugu State and arrest and prosecute those responsible if evidence establishes their involvement.

The song contains alarming lyrics that appear to celebrate religiously motivated violence and threaten an attack on worshippers on a Sunday. It references an AK-47 rifle, describes a journey to Enugu to target people labelled “infidels” during their religious celebration, and imitates gunfire.

HURIWA considers such content a serious security concern that demands immediate attention from law enforcement agencies. Authorities must establish the identity of the individuals behind the song, determine its origin and circulation, assess the credibility of the threat, and take lawful action against anyone found to have committed an offence.

The association warns that threats of violence targeting people on the basis of their religion must never be dismissed as entertainment, political rhetoric or an expression of economic frustration. Where evidence establishes criminal incitement, the perpetrators must face the full consequences of the law.

HURIWA also urges the DSS and police to investigate whether the material forms part of a wider effort to encourage religious hostility, intimidate Christian communities or inspire attacks against innocent citizens. Security agencies must act impartially and apply the law to every individual or group, regardless of religious affiliation or political connections.

The association stresses that freedom of religion and expression does not provide a licence to threaten murder or encourage violence against people because of their beliefs. Nigerians must be able to worship without fear of targeted attacks, and the government has a responsibility to protect that fundamental right.

HURIWA, however, cautions against using the disturbing material to stigmatise an entire religious community. The investigation must focus on the individuals responsible and any networks found to be promoting or facilitating violence. Accountability must rest on evidence, not collective blame.

The association further calls for a broader national conversation about religious extremism, constitutional governance, the enforcement of criminal laws and the protection of citizens across Nigeria. It maintains that no religious doctrine, political ideology or cultural justification should shield anyone who threatens or commits violence against fellow citizens.

HURIWA also advocates a serious review of Nigeria’s federal arrangement and the relationship between constitutional guarantees, state-level legal frameworks and the protection of fundamental rights. Any such debate must prioritise national security, equal citizenship, religious freedom and the rule of law.

The association insists that the immediate priority is clear: identify those responsible for the threatening material, establish the facts, prevent any threatened attack and prosecute anyone against whom sufficient admissible evidence supports criminal charges.

Nigeria cannot afford to ignore threats that could inflame religious tensions or place innocent communities in danger. The DSS and the IGP must act promptly, professionally and transparently to reassure the public that threats of religiously motivated violence will be investigated and addressed under the law.

Signed:

Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko
National Coordinator
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA)
26th October, 2026