For Immediate Release

29 July 2024

Press Statement

The
Right to Peaceful Protest: A Pillar of Democratic Governance as Constitutionally Guaranteed

Abuja,
Nigeria: In light of recent events and ongoing discussions
surrounding the appropriateness of citizens expressing their dissatisfaction
with government policies and actions, we, the undersigned civil society
organisations, are compelled to reaffirm the fundamental right of citizens to
peaceful protest as a fundamental pillar of democratic governance. This right
is a cornerstone of any democratic society and a critical means for citizens to
express their dissatisfaction, demand accountability, and advocate for change.

Protesting is a legitimate form of expression enshrined in international human rights instruments,
including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the African Charter on Human and
Peoples’ Rights, and Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended), among others. It allows citizens
to publicly voice their concerns, challenge injustices, and participate actively

in the democratic process.

Protests serve as
a vital mechanism for holding leaders accountable and ensuring that government
actions reflect the will and needs of the people. History has shown that
protests can lead to significant changes in government policies, processes and
practices, highlighting the power of collective action to address grievances
and promote good governance.

While
the right to protest is a fundamental principle of democratic nations, we concede that it must be exercised peacefully and responsibly without
violating the rights of others. Accordingly, we urge all parties

engaged, including protest

organisers, participants, and law enforcement agencies, to prioritise safety and the rule of law. Law enforcement
has a duty to safeguard protesters while upholding public order. Demonstrators
must avoid activities that might exacerbate tensions, cause unrest or threaten
public safety.

Attempts to
suppress demonstrations through intimidation, excessive use of force, or unjust
legal actions are unacceptable and counterproductive. Every protest is deemed peaceful, and if intelligence
indicates otherwise, it is the role of the appropriate government agencies to
identify such saboteurs and arrest them immediately. Arresting protest
organisers shows a lack of understanding of the enemies of the state.

We urge the
Nigerian Judiciary and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to uphold
the rights of all protesters and establish a mechanism to promptly address and
dismiss oppressive charges that may arise from these protests.