ABUJA (SUNDIATA POST)- Executive Secretary of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Dr. Tony Ojukwu OFR SAN on Monday reiterated that the
recent dispersal of peaceful protesters and journalists using excessive force resulting to injuries of several #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protesters is unacceptable and a clear infringement on the fundamental human rights of Nigerians by
Disclosing this as the nationwide #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protest enters day 5, Ojukwu reminded that Journalists also have the rights to carry out their constitutional duties as the watchdog of the society without fear or intimidation.
The NHRC Boss 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, the statement signed by the Director Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Obinna Nwakonye said.
According to him, these rights are essential to a democratic society and should be respected and protected by Law Enforcement Agencies.
The Chief Human Rights Officer of the country therefore urged Law Enforcement Agencies to respect the rule of engagement and adhere to international standards on policing protests.
“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.
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
- call Toll free numbers: 6472
