Human Rights Group Calls for Action
The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) urgently contacted the National Human Rights Commission to secure the release of detained #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest leaders,as they categorically condemned the arrests. In a widely publicized letter, RULAAC criticized these arrests as violations of democratic freedoms under President Bola Tinubu’s rule. Their appeal emphasizes the ongoing suppression of civic rights in Nigeria.
Details of the Arrests
The protests highlighting Nigeria’s economic hardships led to the arrest of key figures Tunde Oluajo and Michael Adaramoye by the SSS. These arrests occurred in the early hours in Abuja, raising concerns about the government’s approach to civil dissent.
RULAAC’s Stand on Peaceful Protesting
RULAAC has been vocal about its stance that peacefully protesting economic conditions and governance should not be a punishable offense. The organization criticized the government’s harsh tactics as undemocratic, infringing on rights to peaceful assembly and expression. These rights are protected under both Nigerian and international law. The group views these actions as a serious violation of fundamental democratic principles.
Government’s Response to Protests
The ongoing arrests have triggered local and international backlash, contradicting the government’s claims of valuing democracy and citizen rights. These actions have raised concerns among global observers about the sincerity of governmental commitments. The situation challenges the integrity of the government’s prior statements on upholding democratic values. This action has led to accusations of hypocrisy and insensitivity towards the populace’s grievances.
Call for Immediate Release and Dialogue
RULAAC’s statement emphasized the need for a swift intervention by the Human Rights Commission to secure the release of the detained protesters and to ensure that the government respects the constitutional rights of its citizens. They urged the government to engage in dialogue with the protesters rather than continuing to suppress their efforts.
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