As the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest enters its fifth day, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), has denounced the persistent use of force against protesters, journalists, and others by law enforcement agencies.
Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), criticized the excessive measures used to disperse protesters and journalists, which have resulted in injuries.
He described these actions as unacceptable violations of fundamental human rights.
In a statement issued on his behalf by Mr. Obinna Nwakonye, Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Ojukwu affirmed that the right to peaceful assembly and expression is guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights agreements.
He emphasized that journalists must be allowed to perform their duties without fear or intimidation, as these rights are crucial for a democratic society and should be safeguarded by law enforcement.
Ojukwu urged law enforcement agencies to follow established engagement protocols and international standards for managing protests.
He called for investigations into the incidents and accountability for those responsible.
The NHRC also appealed to Nigerians with credible information or evidence of rights violations involving protesters, law enforcement, or the media to report these issues through the commission’s official channels.
