August 1: It shows lack of understanding – Global Rights, others warn against clampdown on protesters

The Global Rights and other frontline civil society organizations in Nigeria and around Africa have reminded the Nigerian Government that the right to peaceful protest is a pillar of democratic governance as constitutionally guaranteed.

The associations said this ahead of the planned nationwide protest slated for the 1st of August, 2024.

This was contained in a statement they collectively signed.

A nationwide protest has been fixed to begin from the 1st of August in Nigeria and there are discussions within the government surrounding the appropriateness of citizens expressing their dissatisfaction with policies and actions of the current administration.

The civil society organisations said it was compelled to reaffirm that peaceful protest was the fundamental right of citizens.

“This right is a cornerstone of any democratic society and a critical means for citizens to express their dissatisfaction, demand accountability, and advocate for change,” Global Rights, which comprises over 37 rights associations, including Yiaga Africa, Enough is Enough and over 35 other civil society organizations.

The civil society organisations insisted that a peaceful protest is a legitimate form of expression enshrined in international human rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended), among others.

“It allows citizens to publicly voice their concerns, challenge injustices, and participate actively in the democratic process,” it added.

“Protests serve as a vital mechanism for holding leaders accountable and ensuring that government actions reflect the will and needs of the people.

“History has shown that protests can lead to significant changes in government policies, processes and practices, highlighting the power of collective action to address grievances and promote good governance.

“While the right to protest is a fundamental principle of democratic nations, we concede that it must be exercised peacefully and responsibly without violating the rights of others.

“Accordingly, we urge all parties engaged, including protest organisers, participants, and law enforcement agencies, to prioritise safety and the rule of law. Law enforcement has a duty to safeguard protesters while upholding public order.

“Demonstrators must avoid activities that might exacerbate tensions, cause unrest or threaten public safety.

“Attempts to suppress demonstrations through intimidation, excessive use of force, or unjust legal actions are unacceptable and counterproductive.

“Every protest is deemed peaceful, and if intelligence indicates otherwise, it is the role of the appropriate government agencies to identify such saboteurs and arrest them immediately,” it said.

The CSO warned against any move to arrest protest organisers, saying it shows a lack of understanding of the enemies of the state.

“We urge the Nigerian Judiciary and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to uphold the rights of all protesters and establish a mechanism to promptly address and dismiss oppressive charges that may arise from these
protests.

“We encourage all citizens to actively participate in shaping a just and accountable society, and we call on all stakeholders to uphold the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law,” it added.