National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the alleged continuous use of force by law enforcement agencies to quash the ongoing protest against what is termed bad governance.
A statement on Monday by the Director Corporate Affairs and External Linkages of the Commission, Obinna Nwakonye read: “As the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protest enters day 5, the Executive Secretary of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Dr. Tony Ojukwu OFR SAN, has again condemned the continuos violation of the rights to peaceful protest and assembly, freedom of expression and the press as well as other associated rights by law enforcement agencies.”
Ojukwu said the recent dispersal of protesters and journalists using excessive force resulting to injuries of several persons is unacceptable and a clear infringement on the fundamental human rights of Nigerians.
The NHRC boss also said citizens have the right to peacefully assemble and to express their grievances as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and other International Human Rights Instruments Nigeria has signed and ratified.
Ojukwu added that journalists also have the rights to carry out their constitutional duties as the watchdog of the 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 agencies
Ojukwu urged law enforcement agencies to respect the rule of engagement and adhere to international standards on policing protests.
He said: “We call on the relevant authorities to investigate these incidents and hold perpetrators accountable.”
He assured that “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 or of law enforcement agents or of the media or of innocent citizens; to call 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; Facebook: NhrcNigeriaonline; X : @NhrcNigeria, and call toll free numbers: 6472.”
