Civil society organizations has condemned the alarming and troubling rate with which the Tinubu-led administration has resorted to utilizing Nigeria’s security agencies as instruments of harassment, intimidation, and suppression against Labour groups and vocal civil society organizations (CSOs).
This was disclosed in a statement jointly signed by Civil society organizations titled: The Tinubu’s administration assault on the civic space: Attack on human rights and democracy, stating that it appears to be a deliberate strategy aimed at stifling dissent and curtailing the voices of those who dare to challenge the status quo.
The statement reads: The actions of the government in this regard seem to be a calculated response to the growing discontent among the populace, which has been fuelled by widespread corruption, extravagant spending by those in power, and the implementation of policies that are increasingly detrimental to the well-being of ordinary Nigerians.
” These policies have not only exacerbated the existing socio-economic challenges but have also contributed to a climate of fear and repression, where legitimate grievances are met with force rather than dialogue.
“Therefore, we condemn in strong terms possible the efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to suppress dissent among citizens, restrict civil society, and undermine Nigeria’s civic environment. The actions taken by the government in recent weeks have raised serious concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in our nation. It is alarming to witness the increasing measures aimed at stifling voices that challenge the status quo, as well as the systematic targeting of organizations and individuals who advocate for transparency, accountability, and social justice.
“We urge the prompt rectification of the numerous errors made in the past months, which have not only eroded public trust but have also created an atmosphere of fear and repression. It is imperative that the government acknowledges these missteps and takes immediate action to restore the rights and freedoms that are the cornerstone of a democratic society. This includes the retraction of any policies or actions that unjustly limit the ability of citizens to express their opinions, assemble peacefully, and engage in meaningful dialogue with their government.
“Furthermore, we assert the necessity for the respect of constitutionally protected rights, including freedom of assembly and association, freedom of expression, and the principles of participatory governance. These rights are not merely privileges; they are fundamental to the functioning of a healthy democracy. Citizens must be allowed to gather, protest, and voice their concerns without fear of retribution. Civil society organizations play a crucial role in advocating for the needs and rights of the populace, and their work should be supported, not hindered.”
The organizations is demanding the Nigeria government to promptly release all peaceful demonstrators who were detained during the #EndBadGovernance protest, particularly ensuring the unconditional release of minors.
“Immediately halt the unjust and illegal harassment of officials of the NLC.
Provide a prompt and unconditional apology to the President of the NLC for his unlawful arrest and harassment.
“The DSS should to extend an unqualified apology for this unjust and audacious assault.
“To direct its agencies and departments to implement a human rights-centered approach when addressing dissent, particularly during protests. A fundamental principle of the democratic framework we claim to uphold is the allowance of dissenting opinions.
“The callous and unwarranted harassment of civic actors like Omoyele Sowore should end. Nigerians should not be harassed because they choose to exercise their right to freedom of expression in a manner that the government finds unpalatable.
“President Tinubu should initiate a dialogue involving civil society organizations, media representatives, and professional groups in Nigeria.”
“We caution that neglecting the responsibilities will only exacerbate the struggles of Nigerians, who are already burdened by a severely mismanaged economy. It conveys to the international community that residing in “Africa’s Largest Democracy” is akin to existence under a dictatorship. It is the Government’s guaranteed ticket to both national and international embarrassment.
“The period characterized by the oppressive measures of dictatorship ended in 1999. Such an era is not endorsed by Nigeria’s constitution and fails to meet the aspirations of the Nigerian populace, thereby lacking legitimacy,” the statement added