As the nationwide anti-hunger protest begins today, tension mounts between the organisers and security forces.
The organisers insist on a street procession, while the police are adamant about confining the protest to designated areas.
Calls for Dialogue Amidst Growing Tension
Ebun Adegboruwa, SAN, a solicitor for the Take-it-Back Movement, urged protesters to allow room for dialogue.
“My final appeal is to the protesters. Even our forefathers in their graveyards have heard your voices loud and clear,” Adegboruwa remarked.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and suggested limiting the protest to a maximum of three days.
Human rights activist Femi Falana, SAN, expressed concern about potential suppression of the protesters’ rights.
“I fought for the right of Nigerians to protest and we won the battle in court. My involvement is to ensure the right of the people to protest,” Falana stated.
Federal Government Appeals for Restraint
In an effort to prevent the protest, the Federal Government appealed for calm.
Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, urged Nigerians to shun the protest, warning that it could be hijacked by terrorists and bandits.
“We appeal to Nigerians to pursue peace, dialogue, and collaboration in addressing the country’s challenges,” Akume said.
Court Restricts Protesters in Abuja
In a significant development, Justice Sylvanus Oriji of a High Court in Abuja issued an order restricting the protesters to the MKO Abiola stadium.
The order followed concerns raised by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike about potential violence and disruption.
Show of Force by Security Agencies
Across the country, police and other security agencies conducted a show of force.
In Lagos, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and Task Force officers were visible at key locations.
Lagos State Police Commissioner Adegoke Fayoade assured the public of their safety, promising to protect peaceful protesters.
“We are ready to give them adequate security so that hoodlums don’t hijack it and make it violent,” Fayoade stated.
In Osogbo, a joint task force of security personnel patrolled the streets, while in Lagos, an explosive device was safely detonated near the Nigeria Customs Service office.
National Human Rights Commission to Monitor Protest
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) announced its intention to monitor the protest to ensure the protection of participants’ rights.
NHRC Executive Secretary Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, emphasized the importance of upholding citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression.
Civil Society and Legal Responses
ActionAid Nigeria expressed solidarity with the protesters, asserting their constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
Meanwhile, Falana wrote to the Lagos State Attorney-General, urging action against thugs allegedly intimidating protesters.
