Civil society organizations have expressed grave concerns over the escalating use of Nigeria’s security agencies by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to suppress dissent and intimidate critics. The administration’s recent actions, including the unlawful arrest of Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero and a raid on the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), have drawn widespread condemnation.
These developments are seen as part of a broader strategy to stifle opposition and curtail freedom of expression. Critics argue that the Tinubu administration’s approach reflects a troubling disregard for democratic norms and human rights, exacerbating existing socio-economic challenges and contributing to a climate of fear.
On September 9, 2024, the administration’s measures reached a new low with the arrest of Ajaero and the siege on SERAP’s offices. These actions have raised alarms about the state of democracy in Nigeria, reminiscent of past repressive regimes. The heavy-handed response to peaceful protests, including the use of excessive force by the police, has resulted in fatalities and widespread detentions, including of minors charged with treason.
Civil society organizations call for immediate reforms, including halting the harassment of NLC officials, releasing detained protesters, and respecting constitutionally protected rights. They urge the administration to engage in dialogue with civil society groups and adhere to democratic principles to restore public trust and ensure the protection of individual freedoms.
The ongoing repression highlights the need for a renewed commitment to democratic values and human rights, with a call for the government to align its policies with both the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.