The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the killing of five persons during an Easter Monday procession in Gombe State, calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.

The tragedy occurred when a lone truck driver rammed into a crowd of Christian worshippers during an early morning procession at Tashan Gona, Billiri Local Council. The truck, reportedly carrying grains, lost control while speeding, killing five people and injuring 13 others.

Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Gombe State, Mr Samson Kaura, told reporters that the driver was apprehended and handed over to the police for prosecution on charges of speeding and reckless driving.

However, HURIWA, through its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, criticised the police and FRSC, describing their investigation as “wishy-washy, preposterous and utterly ludicrous.” The group accused security agencies of hastily concluding that the incident was accidental without conducting a detailed probe.

HURIWA further questioned the absence of security personnel from the FRSC, Police, and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) during the procession, and alleged that the failure to protect participants reflected neglect towards minority ethnic and religious groups in the North.

The association called on President Bola Tinubu to take decisive steps to guarantee equal protection for all Nigerians, irrespective of religious or ethnic background. It also raised doubts over the police’s conclusion, arguing that the road where the procession took place was reportedly clear of traffic, making the crash suspicious.

HURIWA alleged that the incident could be a targeted attack and urged the authorities to investigate possible conspiracies against Christians in the region.