The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on security agencies to ensure adequate protection for citizens exercising their right to peaceful protest. The appeal comes as civil society organizations plan nationwide demonstrations against economic hardship.
In a press briefing held in Abuja on Monday, NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, urged the federal government to guarantee the safety of protesters and the journalists covering the events. He emphasized the need for mechanisms to hold security forces accountable for any violations during the protests, urging that no undue barriers should be placed on peaceful demonstrators.
“We call on the federal and state governments to ensure the October protests are peaceful,” Ojukwu stated. “Protesters must be protected from violence, including counter-protesters or mobs, and their right to peaceful assembly must be respected.”
The NHRC chief also stressed the need for all demonstrations to remain within the bounds of the law, urging protesters to act with civility and respect the rights of others. Additionally, Ojukwu reminded security personnel of their duty to avoid excessive force and protect journalists.
He further noted that the right to peaceful assembly is enshrined in Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution and supported by international human rights frameworks, making protests a legitimate way for citizens to voice their grievances.
The NHRC pledged to monitor the protests closely to ensure accountability, with Ojukwu warning against any violations of protester rights by state or non-state actors.
