The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the Inspector-General of Police, Rilwan Disu, to tackle alleged bail extortion and human rights abuses in police stations across the country.
The group also urged the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate a song allegedly threatening attacks against Christians in Enugu State.
In separate statements signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, HURIWA called for stronger accountability measures to protect citizens and prevent potential security threats.
The association urged the police chief to establish a dedicated complaints hotline and deploy special inspection teams to conduct unannounced visits to police stations nationwide.
It alleged that some officers demand unofficial payments before accepting complaints, investigating crimes or granting bail to detainees. HURIWA expressed particular concern about the Tiger Base facility in Owerri, Imo State, and called for an urgent investigation into alleged misconduct.
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The group also recommended that inspection teams review detention records, examine bail procedures and speak privately with detainees to identify possible abuses. It stressed that officers found culpable should face disciplinary action and prosecution where appropriate.
On the alleged threat against Christians in Enugu, HURIWA called on security agencies to identify those behind the song, determine its origin and circulation, and assess the credibility of the threat.
The association warned that content allegedly encouraging religious violence should not be dismissed as entertainment or political expression. It maintained that anyone found to have committed criminal incitement should be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
However, HURIWA cautioned against blaming an entire religious community for the alleged threat, insisting that investigations should focus on the individuals responsible and any networks involved.
The group emphasised that Nigerians must be able to report crimes, obtain police assistance and secure bail without paying unofficial fees. It urged the police and DSS to act promptly, professionally and transparently to protect lives, uphold fundamental rights and strengthen public confidence in security institutions.
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