EndBadGovernment Protest: NHRC Condemns Use Of Force By Security Agencies

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the alleged continued use of force by law enforcement agencies to quell an ongoing protest against what it calls bad governance.

Obinna Nwakonye, the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, issued a statement on Monday
“As the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protest enters day 5, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu OFR SAN, has once again condemned the continuos violation of the rights to peaceful protest and assembly, freedom of expression and the press, and other associated rights by law enforcement agencies.”

Ojukwu said the recent dispersal of protesters and journalists with excessive force, which resulted in multiple injuries, is unacceptable and a clear violation of Nigerians’ fundamental human rights.

The NHRC chairman also stated that citizens have the right to peacefully assemble and express their grievances, as guaranteed by the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s Constitution and other International Human Rights Instruments that Nigeria has signed and ratified.

Ojukwu added that journalists have the right to carry out their constitutional duties as the watchdogs of society without fear or intimidation.

According to him, these rights are essential to a democratic society and should be respected and protected by law enforcement.

Ojukwu urged law enforcement to follow international protest policing standards and respect the rule of engagement.

He stated, “We urge the relevant authorities to investigate these incidents and hold perpetrators accountable.”

He stated, “At the NHRC, we will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary steps to ensure that human rights are protected and promoted in Nigeria.”

The statement read that: “In the meantime, the NHRC is calling on all well-meaning Nigerians who have credible evidence or information of the violation of rights of protesters, law enforcement agents, the media, or innocent citizens; to call the NHRC Toll-free number 6472 or send the information or evidence to the following addresses: infor@nigeriarights.org; The Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission, No 19 Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja; Fac