As the #EndBadGovernance protest begins across Nigeria today, August 1, 2024, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued an advisory to the Nigerian Government, security agencies, and protest organizers.
The advisory aims to ensure that the protest, which is set to run for ten days, proceeds peacefully and in accordance with human rights standards.
Tony Ojukwu, SAN, Executive Secretary of the NHRC, released the advisory late Wednesday in Abuja, highlighting the Commission’s mandate under Section 5, paragraphs (l), (m), and (o) of its enabling Act.
The protest, known as the ‘hunger protest,’ is scheduled to run for ten days, from August 1 to August 10. Despite efforts by President Bola Tinubu, governors, the National Assembly leadership, security heads, and other influential figures to halt it, the protest is proceeding as planned.
Omoyele Sowore, one of the protest organizers and an activist, dismissed rumors that the protest had been canceled.
There are concerns that the protest could be taken over by criminals, potentially leading to violence. Additionally, there is apprehension about clashes between protesters, security forces, and pro-government groups who have begun holding counter-rallies.
The NHRC’s advisory outlines recommended actions for all parties to ensure a peaceful protest:
Government Obligations:
– Uphold Fundamental Human Rights and State Policy Objectives as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
– Facilitate peaceful assemblies by protecting protest events.
– Prevent disruptions from opposing groups or hostile forces.
– Avoid the use of deadly force in response to emerging violence, following international best practices to preserve human life.
**Law Enforcement and Security Agencies’ Obligations:**
– Follow the UN Code of Conduct and Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms, which emphasize that force should be used only when absolutely necessary and as a last resort.
– Avoid torture or any form of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.
– Respect protesters’ rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
– Ensure safe and unobstructed traffic routes for all.
– Protect both public and private property from damage.
– Conduct prompt and impartial investigations into any human rights violations during the protest.
Protest Leaders’ Obligations:
– Ensure the protest remains peaceful and avoid provocative actions, including violence, hate speech, or property destruction.
– Cooperate with law enforcement to maintain order and uphold the legitimacy of the protest.
– Balance the right to protest with the protection of critical infrastructure.
The NHRC emphasized that dialogue, respect for human rights, and adherence to the rule of law are essential for addressing the protesters’ grievances while maintaining public order. The Commission also called on all parties to avoid actions that could harm public safety or damage property and undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
Ojukwu stated that the NHRC will actively monitor the protests to ensure that human rights principles are upheld by both state and non-state actors.
