ActionAid Blasts Nigeria On Abduction, Arrest Of Peaceful Protesters On Democracy Day

ActionAid Nigeria, a local NGO affiliated with ActionAid International, a global federation of social justice groups with a presence in over 70 countries, has condemned security forces’ crackdown on peaceful demonstrations by some Nigerians on Democracy Day.

On Wednesday, the Country Representative of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, issued the following statement: “We witnessed a disturbing crackdown on peaceful pro-democracy activists.” One of the leaders in Lagos, Juwon Sanyaolu, was kidnapped by suspected Department of State Security (DSS) agents, and his whereabouts are unknown.

“In Abuja, students and activists from Activista who went out to advocate for good governance were also arrested in Gwagwalada and are currently in custody.

“We condemn the blatant suppression of constitutional and democratic rights, and demand:

– The immediate release of Juwon Sanyaolu and all arrested activists.

– An end to the suppression of peaceful protests and respect for our constitutional rights.

– An investigation into the abduction and arrests, as well as accountability for those involved.

Mamedu stated, “President Tinubu’s speech today emphasises the importance of democratic values, human rights, and the protection of freedom of expression and assembly. However, his government’s actions go against these principles. We urge the President to put his words into action and uphold our rights.

“The Nigerian Community of Activists for Good Governance, which ActionAid Nigeria belongs to, will not be silenced. We will continue to advocate for justice, equality, and democracy for all Nigerians. The true meaning of this Democracy Day is to commit to a better future rather than just celebrating the past. We will hold the government accountable for its actions and ensure that democracy is not only a historical fact, but a living, breathing reality.

“We remember the sacrifices of pro-democracy activists, including our current president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who fought for our democratic rights, and we will continue to honour their memory by standing up to oppression. We will not be deterred by intimidation or violence, and we will continue our fight for a better Nigeria.

“We urge all Nigerians to join us in calling for an end to the crackdown on peaceful protests and the immediate release of all arrested Activista members.” Together, we can create a Nigeria in which democracy is not just a celebration but a way of life.”