As Nigerians prepare for nationwide protests on June 12, 2025, Amnesty International has called on the government to uphold constitutional and international human rights standards by ensuring the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression is respected.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Amnesty International Nigeria Director, Isa Sanusi, urged authorities to refrain from using the protests—sparked by worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and a shrinking civic space—as a pretext for repression.
“The Nigerian authorities must ensure that security agencies respect and facilitate the right to peaceful protest, as guaranteed by the Constitution and international human rights instruments including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,” Sanusi stated.
He warned against the deployment of inflammatory rhetoric by government officials that could demonize protesters or undermine legitimate dissent.
“Authorities must not use the proposed protests as an excuse to crack down on fundamental freedoms,” he said. “People must be allowed to freely exercise their rights without fear of intimidation or violence.”
Sanusi noted that Nigeria is grappling with a deepening security crisis and unprecedented cost-of-living challenges, with rural communities in states such as Benue, Zamfara, Plateau, Katsina, Sokoto, and Kebbi bearing the brunt of rising violence.
He stressed that rather than escalating repression, the government should focus on addressing the root causes driving public frustration.
“Authorities must demonstrate a genuine commitment to Nigeria’s constitutional and international obligations by protecting the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association,” Sanusi added.
Amnesty International reiterated its call for Nigerian authorities to engage constructively with citizens and civil society actors advocating for accountability, justice, and socioeconomic reforms.
