The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) has called on the organisers of the #EndbadGovernanceProtest in the country to present their demands in a civil, peaceful, and orderly manner to the federal government.
This was even as it commended the federal government for acknowledging citizens’ constitutional right to protest against bad governance.
It also lauded the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Security (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies for their role in maintaining peace and order during the protest.
In a statement signed by the African Ambassador-at-Large of the IHRC, Ambassador Malami Shehu Ma’aji, and made available to newsmen on Wednesday, it was noted that it was happy that the federal government acted in accordance with the best international practices.
“Let me use this opportunity to commend the Nigerian President for embracing international best practices and recognising protest as a fundamental human right enshrined in the constitution,” he said.
“I must commend the Department of State Security (DSS) for helping to create a safer environment for peaceful protests and allowing citizens to exercise their constitutional rights while minimising the risk of violence by bad eggs,” he said.
The IHRC Ambassador described protest as a fundamental human right, emphasising its importance in holding leaders accountable.
He, however, cautioned organisers of the planned nationwide protest to come forward and present their demands in a civil, peaceful, and orderly manner to the government rather than remaining faceless.
Malami stressed the importance of responsible and constructive engagement, urging protesters to engage with the government in a manner that promotes dialogue and understanding for peaceful coexistence.
He emphasised that this approach would help to prevent unnecessary conflicts and ensure a peaceful resolution of grievances.
Malami also advised the Nigerian President to heed the concerns of Nigerian youths and citizens, advocating for fundamental reforms to address pressing issues.
“Let me emphasise the need for the Nigerian government to demonstrate its commitment by listening to the voices of its citizens and working towards a more prosperous and stable country,” he said.
Specifically, Malami called on the government to address the pressing issues of de-escalating threats, reducing prices of food, goods, and services, and rebuilding the Nigerian economy.
He believed that by doing so, the government could demonstrate its commitment to the welfare and well-being of its citizens.
The IHRC Ambassador’s statement comes at a time when Nigeria is experiencing a wave of protests and agitations from various groups, calling for reforms and better governance to end hunger and insecurity.
His words of caution and advice are seen as a timely intervention aimed at promoting peace, stability, and constructive engagement in the country.
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