Amnesty International has raised alarm over the unlawful detention of activists Adaramoye Michael (Lenin) and Mosiu Sodiq by the Nigerian government.
The human rights organization revealed that the activists have been held in custody since August 5, 2024, without access to legal representation or contact with their families, in blatant disregard for the rule of law. The duo is among hundreds of peaceful protesters who have been targeted by security agencies in recent crackdowns.
Amnesty International criticized the Nigerian authorities for prioritizing the arrest of peaceful protesters at a time when millions of citizens are grappling with severe hunger, widespread malnutrition, and deepening poverty. The organization called for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained protesters, emphasizing that the state should focus on addressing the pressing humanitarian crisis rather than suppressing dissent.
The protests, which took place from August 1 to 10, 2024, were sparked by widespread discontent over hunger and corruption. In response, the Nigerian government reportedly arrested over 1,000 individuals across the country in a sweeping crackdown aimed at silencing opposition.
Amnesty International reiterated that citizens have the right to express their grievances peacefully, and the state is obligated to protect and facilitate this right. The organization urged the Nigerian government to respect human rights and adhere to its international obligations, emphasizing the need for an immediate halt to the unlawful detentions.
