HUMAN Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed concern over what it described as a worsening security breakdown in the country following a 72-hour ultimatum reportedly issued by Boko Haram regarding abducted victims in Borno State.

In a statement signed on Tuesday by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, the group said the development reflects a dangerous escalation in insecurity and a continued weakening of state authority in Nigeria.

Onwubiko stated that the ultimatum, said to involve 416 abducted women and children in Borno State, shows what he called the growing boldness of terrorist groups operating within the country.

According to the organisation, the situation raises fundamental questions about the capacity of the Nigerian state to protect its citizens and respond decisively to security threats.

HURIWA National Coordinator said the development, combined with recent attacks on civilians and security operatives, signals a broader collapse in the country’s internal security architecture.

He also cited the attack on travellers along the Ore–Benin expressway, where a commercial driver was killed and passengers abducted, describing it as evidence of worsening insecurity on major highways.

In addition, HURIWA referenced continued violent incidents in parts of Plateau State, particularly Riyom and Barkin Ladi, where communities have faced repeated nighttime attacks resulting in deaths and injuries.

“We are witnessing a situation where armed groups are issuing ultimatums and operating with increasing confidence, while citizens are left vulnerable,” Onwubiko stated.

He questioned the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security response, arguing that the inability to prevent abductions and repeated attacks indicates a serious governance and operational gap.

Onwubiko warned that the continued trend could further erode public confidence in state institutions if urgent steps are not taken.

The group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action to address the situation, insisting that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government.

HURIWA also advocated the deployment of modern surveillance technology along highways and in rural communities, as well as strengthened community-based security structures under proper regulation.

“The situation we are seeing today is a clear signal that urgent intervention is required. The safety of Nigerians must not be negotiable,” Onwubiko said

He added that Nigeria stands at a critical point where failure to act decisively could worsen the already fragile security environment.