An appeal has been made by the Niger Delta Budget Monitoring Group to the Federal Government to look into incidents of human rights abuses that occurred during the hunger protests which commenced nationwide on Thursday, August 1, 2024.
In a joint statement from the Chief Executive Officer, High Chief Anthony George-Hill, and a member of the Nigeria Civic Space Protection Alliance, Stiv Obodoekwe, the group stressed the importance of the government ensuring democratic freedom and protecting civic space.
This statement followed a two-day training on civic space protection organized by the group in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The group’s communication stated, “It is essential for the government to uphold and defend the human rights of its citizens at all times. Therefore, a conducive environment should be provided for citizens to freely exercise their rights.”
“Recognizing the significance of human rights and civic space in preserving democracy, we urge the government to prioritize the interests of citizens and the protection of human rights and civic space in its agenda, policies, and activities.”
“Concrete measures should be taken by the government to ensure democratic freedoms, safeguard civic space, human rights, and the rule of law. Authorities must allow citizens to freely express themselves without fear of reprisal.”
“It is crucial that incidents of rights violations and suppression of civic space are thoroughly investigated, and any government officials implicated should be held accountable in a court of law.”
The group did caution against any individuals or groups advocating for a change in government through military intervention, stating that democracy is a more preferable system than a moment of military rule.
“Nigeria should serve as a democratic role model in Africa, regardless of its challenges and setbacks,” the statement further emphasized.