The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has strongly condemned the recent invasion of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) by security agencies. This unwarranted action not only targets these organizations but also represents a broader attack on democratic principles.
In a statement released by the Executive Director of CITAD, Engineer Yunusa Zakaria Ya’u, the organization highlighted the severity of these actions. He emphasized that such behavior undermines the fundamental rights of assembly and expression, which are essential to a democratic society.
CITAD pointed out that the NLC and CDHR have long been champions of Nigerians’ rights to freely express themselves and associate with others. Their recent criticisms of security forces using excessive force against peaceful protesters during the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations were entirely justified and within their rights as defenders of democracy.
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The Executive Director reiterated that the invasion of these civil society organizations constitutes a blatant violation of their rights to operate without fear. Such actions threaten not only the NLC and CDHR but also all civil society groups, activists, and citizens who advocate against injustices perpetrated by the Nigerian government and its security forces.
Y.Z. noted that CITAD is committed to fighting for citizens’ rights, as enshrined in Chapter Four of the 1999 Constitution, as amended. The organization once again condemned this infringement on the people’s rights to assemble and express their views freely.
CITAD called on the presidency to intervene and bring these security agencies to order. They urged an immediate cessation of these oppressive tactics and a commitment to upholding the rule of law in Nigeria.
In conclusion, CITAD expressed solidarity with the NLC, CDHR, and all other organizations and individuals dedicated to ensuring that Nigeria remains a nation where justice, freedom, and the rule of law are upheld.
