Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned the alleged public flogging of Mr. Godspower Okedi in Emevor Community, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, describing the assault as a grave violation of human rights and a direct attack on freedom of expression.
The rights organisation said Okedi was allegedly subjected to brutal physical abuse for openly questioning those in authority over an abandoned infrastructure project intended to benefit the community.
According to Amnesty International, a verified video circulating on social media shows several members of the community pinning Okedi to the ground before repeatedly flogging him with whips and pieces of wood while trampling on him, allegedly with the intention of inflicting severe physical harm.
The organisation maintained that the victim was unlawfully punished for demanding accountability and seeking explanations over the abandonment of a public project, noting that Delta State is dotted with numerous abandoned infrastructure projects.
In a statement, Amnesty International said the incident represents not only a violation of Okedi’s fundamental rights but also a disturbing attempt to silence citizens who seek transparency and accountability in governance.
The organisation warned that the attack reflects an increasingly hostile environment for civic participation at the state level, alleging that critics and whistleblowers are facing intimidation, violence and other forms of repression.
It stressed that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to question government actions, demand accountability for the use of public funds and express concerns over poor infrastructure without fear of violence, torture, intimidation or humiliation.
Amnesty International further expressed concern over what it described as a growing pattern of human rights violations in Delta State, alleging that some local leaders and individuals aligned with those in power are abusing their influence to suppress dissent and shrink civic space.
According to the organisation, the use of violence to silence citizens who expose failed or abandoned public projects not only undermines freedom of expression but also encourages corruption and weakens the rule of law.
The organisation called on Nigerian authorities to launch a thorough, impartial and independent investigation into the incident and ensure that all those responsible are identified and brought to justice.
Amnesty International also urged the authorities to uphold the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression and protects citizens from cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.
It insisted that swift action by law enforcement agencies would demonstrate that no individual, regardless of status or influence, is above the law and reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to protecting fundamental human rights.
