joshuaNATION-WIDE PROTEST: THE WAY FORWARD.
The right to protest is a fundamental human right recognized under various international and regional instruments, including but not limited to the following:
1. United Nations Charter (Article 20): recognizes the right to peaceful assembly and association.
2. International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Article 21): protects the right to peaceful assembly.
3. African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Article 11): recognizes the right to freedom of assembly and association.
4. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Section 40): guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and association and also the combine reading of section 39 and 41.
These instruments acknowledge the importance of protest as a means of expressing grievances, promoting accountability, and advocating for change. The Bola Ahmed Tinubu lead administrations have failed to respect these principles and authorities in their engagement with the protesters.
The use of excessive force or brutality by military or police against protesters is considered a violation of human rights and is not acceptable in a democratic society. Democracy is built on the principles of freedom of expression, assembly, and the right to peaceful protest.
In a democratic system, law enforcement agencies are expected to maintain public order while respecting and protecting the rights of citizens, including protesters. Excessive use of force or brutality can lead to serious physical harm, emotional trauma, and even death which is what we are witnessing since the beginning of the End bad governance in Nigeria protest on the 1st of August 2024.
International human rights standards, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, emphasize the importance of protecting the rights of protesters and preventing excessive use of force by law enforcement.
The solution is that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu government should listen and address the issues that has been raised by well meaning citizens and do whatever possible to prevent further escalation of the situation.
The government should listen to protesters and consider their demands for the benefit of both the government and the people. In a democratic society, the government is expected to listen to its citizens, including protesters, as they are elected to represent the people’s interests but in Nigeria those in Government want that role reversed.
government Benefits more by engaging with the people instead of the application of repressive regime tactics. Benefits are far more important as seen below.
1. Improved legitimacy: By listening to protesters, the government demonstrates its commitment to democratic values and responsiveness to citizens’ concerns.
2. Better decision-making: Protesters’ input can provide valuable insights, helping the government make more informed decisions.
3. Reduced unrest: Addressing protesters’ grievances can reduce tensions and prevent further unrest.
Benefits for the people:
1. Voice and representation: Protesters’ voices are heard, and their concerns are addressed, ensuring they feel represented and valued.
2. Positive change: Protesters’ demands can lead to meaningful reforms and improvements in policies, laws, or social issues.
3. Strengthened democracy: When the government listens to protesters, it reinforces democratic principles and encourages citizen participation.
4 Understand the people’s concerns and needs.
5. Address grievances and make informed decisions.
6. Out Build trust and maintain social cohesion.
By listening to protesters, the government can create a win-win situation, strengthening its relationship with citizens and improving the overall well-being of society.
*PETER AMEH*
*NATIONAL CONVENER*
*COALITION FOR DEMOCRATIC ACCOUNTABILITY AND ELECTORAL REFORMS (CODER)*
