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The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has condemned reported killing of passengers by armed bandits along road to Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, describing attack as cruel assault on sanctity of human life and safety of innocent citizens.
The condemnation was contained in a press statement signed by Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, National Coordinator, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, on 22nd October 2026.
Armed Assailants Intercepted Vehicle Returning From Sokoto City — Reports
Reports indicate that armed assailants intercepted vehicle conveying passengers returning from Sokoto city on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, and opened fire on those inside. Exact number of casualties had yet to be officially confirmed as of Thursday.
Conflict reporter Bakatsine, who covers security developments in northwestern Nigeria, reported incident and shared photographs of some of victims.
Some of those reportedly killed were said to be among 3,000 people recruited by Sokoto State Government who had travelled to state capital for further screening and collection of their documents.
Security Must Move Beyond Reactive Responses — HURIWA
“HURIWA demands effective and efficient coordination among security agencies, backed by proactive, intelligence-led operations, to prevent further bloodshed and protect Nigerians travelling on nation’s highways,” the association stated.
HURIWA described reported attack as disturbing reminder of grave security risks confronting citizens on roads in parts of northwestern Nigeria.
“Security operations must move beyond reactive responses after attacks have occurred. Intelligence gathering, information sharing, strategic deployment and timely intervention must form the foundation of efforts to dismantle armed criminal networks and protect vulnerable communities,” HURIWA insisted.
Track Down Perpetrators, Ensure Justice — HURIWA Tells Security Agencies
The association called on relevant security agencies to urgently investigate incident, establish identities and number of victims, track down perpetrators and ensure all those responsible are arrested and prosecuted in accordance with law.
“The killers must not be allowed to escape justice. Every failure to identify and bring perpetrators of such atrocities to account risks deepening public anxiety and weakening citizens’ confidence in the ability of the state to protect their lives,” HURIWA warned.
HURIWA also urged Sokoto State Government and relevant federal authorities to cooperate fully with security agencies, provide necessary operational support and ensure affected families receive timely information and appropriate assistance.
While acknowledging challenges confronting security agencies, HURIWA maintained that protection of lives and property remains fundamental responsibility of government that must be pursued with urgency, professionalism and measurable results.
“We call for stronger highway surveillance, improved intelligence networks and closer coordination among the police, military and other relevant security agencies to prevent armed groups from turning public roads into killing grounds,” HURIWA said.
The association extended condolences to families of victims and called on authorities to provide transparent updates on incident as investigations proceed.
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