Barrister Adebanji Dada, an Abuja based legal practitioner and the Lead Director, Advocate of Rule of Law and Human Dignity (a nonprofit organization) has called for caution on the proposed protest in Nigeria.
In a signed Press Statement made available to the media, he stated: “As Nigeria faces economic hardship and social unrest, a proposed protest has ignited debate on citizens’ right to dissent. While the Constitution guarantees peaceful assembly, it’s crucial to acknowledge its limitations and potential consequences.
Amid rising inflation, unemployment, and poverty, the protest seems justified. However, there are concerns about violence and chaos. Constructive dialogue, not protests, is essential for addressing grievances and driving national development.”
He further advised and called for building a better Nigeria through peaceful and constructive means.
Below is the signed Press Release by Barrister Adebanji Dada;
The Right to Protest: A Delicate Balance; A Call for Caution in Nigeria
As Nigeria grapples with economic hardship and social unrest, a proposed protest has
sparked intense debate about the fundamental rights of citizens to express dissent.
While acknowledging the constitutional right to protest, it’s crucial to recognize its
limitations and potential consequences.
The Nigerian Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of assembly and expression,
allowing citizens to protest peacefully. This right is essential in a democracy, enabling
citizens to hold their leaders accountable and demand change.
However, this right is not absolute. It’s subject to limitations to ensure public safety,
maintain order, and protect the rights of others. The government has a responsibility to
balance individual rights with the greater good.
Nigeria is facing unprecedented hardship, with soaring inflation, unemployment, and
poverty. The government has taken steps to address these issues, but more needs to be
done to make life meaningful for the average citizen.
In this context, the proposed protest may seem like a justified response. However, there
are warning signs that unscrupulous elements plan to hijack the protest, perpetuating
illegalities and unleashing violence. This could lead to chaos, destruction of property,
and loss of lives.
Rather than resorting to protest, which could burn down the country, the organizers’
demands can be addressed through dialogue. The government should engage with theprotesters, listen to their grievances, and work towards finding solutions.
Moreover, civil society and development organizations must actively engage Nigerian
youth in peacebuilding and constructive dialogue with their leaders. This engagement
is crucial for fostering impactful leadership and driving national development.
We advise the government to refrain from making threats against those planning to
engage in the protest. Such threats could escalate tensions and undermine efforts to
achieve peaceful resolutions. Constructive engagement, rather than intimidation, is the
path forward.
Let’s work together to build a better Nigeria, where citizens’ rights are respected, and
their voices are heard without resorting to destructive means. The time for constructive
dialogue is now.