Respect October 1 protesters rights, NHRC urges security agents
Ahead of the planned protest on October 1, the National Human Rights Commission has urged protesters to exercise their rights in accordance with the law.The NHRC Executive Secretary, Anthony Ojukwu (SAN), also advised law enforcement agents to respect protesters' rights to peaceful assembly and expression, which are enshrined in the 1999 constitution and other regional and international instruments to which Nigeria is a party.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, Ojukwu emphasised the importance of protests for democracy and citizen engagement in governance, reading from an advisory titled "Protect the Right to Peaceful Assembly and Association".
He urged the federal and state governments to ensure that the October 1 protests are peaceful and that protesters are given the support and leverage they need to conduct themselves civilly, as well as protection from counter-protesters and mobs.
He stated that the government should protect protesters from violence or intimidation while also facilitating peaceful assemblies through appropriate measures.
"The government must implement effective accountability mechanisms to hold law enforcement and security agencies accountable for any abuses committed during protests." This includes looking into incidents in which excessive force was used or protesters were unlawfully detained.
"Government must deploy its apparatus for the protection of private and public properties as well as the lives of protesters and non-protesters before, during, and after the protests."
Speaking further, Ojukwu stated, "The NHRC notes with great concern the clampdown on protesters and subsequent criminal prosecutions following the August 2024 End Bad Governance Protests in parts of Nigeria.
"The August protests resulted in the loss of lives as well as public and private property, but it is unclear whether law enforcement and security agents who were primarily responsible for these violations have been arrested and prosecuted.
"The NHRC is concerned about the treason charges that have been levied against some of the protesters and has expressed this in various forums. We will continue to monitor the situation and trials.
Addressing protesters, Ojukwu advised them to avoid violence, property destruction, and harmful behaviour, emphasising that such actions are detrimental to nation-building.
He went on to say that the damage caused could cost a fortune to repair, which would be a significant setback to societal development.
He stated, "Exercise your right to peaceful protest within the scope of the law, be very civil, and respect the rights of others."
"Work with law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety by behaving modestly and civilly.
"Refrain from hate speech and divisive rhetoric, abusive words and foul language."
Leave A Comment