Ambassador-at-Large for Africa Region of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), Amb (Dr) Malami Shehu Ma’aji, MFR, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for acknowledging citizens’ constitutional right to protest against bad governance.
He also lauded the Nigeria Armed Forces, Department of State Security DSS, Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for their role in maintaining peace and order during the protest.
The African Ambassador-at-Large of IHRC, Amb (Dr) Malami Shehu Ma’aji stated this in a press release signed and made available to journalists in Abuja, Nigeria.
“Let me use this opportunity to commend the Nigerian President for embracing international best practices, recognizing protest as a fundamental human right enshrined in the constitution” he said.
“I must commend the Department of State Security’s (DSS) for helping to create a safer environment for peaceful protests and allowing citizens to exercise their constitutional rights while minimizing the risk of violence by bad eggs” he said.
The IHRC Ambassador described protest as a fundamental human right, emphasizing its importance in holding leaders accountable.
He however, cautioned organizers 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.
Dr. 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 emphasized that this approach would help to prevent unnecessary conflicts and ensure a peaceful resolution of grievances.
Dr. 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 emphasize 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, Dr. 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 can 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.
Rel: Adamu Yusuf
