By Chioma Obinna
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed concern over the withdrawal of most United States troops from joint counterterrorism operations in Nigeria, warning that the move could create a security vacuum for terrorist groups to regroup and launch fresh attacks.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the rights group said the development should not be interpreted as a sign that the war against insurgency has been won. Instead, it urged the Federal Government to take urgent steps to prevent extremist groups from exploiting the situation.
HURIWA warned that unless Nigerian security agencies quickly fill the operational gap left by the departing U.S. forces, terrorist groups could reorganise, rearm and intensify attacks, particularly against vulnerable communities.
“The withdrawal of U.S. troops could embolden terrorist groups to regroup, rearm and intensify attacks on vulnerable communities,” the organisation stated.
