CLEEN Foundation a civil society organisation, has expressed concern over the safety and rights of individuals and security operatives, in the coming nationwide protest, urging all participants to exercise their rights responsibly, conduct the protest peacefully without resorting to violence or vandalism.
The Executive Director of the organization, Dr. Gad Peter in a statement on Tuesday, in Abuja charged protesters to cooperate with law enforcement agencies, respect the rights of others, and be mindful of public property and the safety of all individuals.
Peter noted that, the proposed protest is a legitimate form of expression enshrined in International Human Rights Instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended), among others.
According to him, protest allows citizens to publicly voice their concerns, challenge injustices, and participate actively in the democratic process.
He said, “Protests serve as a vital mechanism for holding leaders accountable and ensuring that government actions reflect the will and needs of the people. They enable citizens to collectively and effectively express their opinions, grievances, and demands. These rights are expressly stated in Sections, 39, 40, and 41 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The proposed protest is a legitimate form of expression enshrined in International Human Rights Instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended), among others. It allows citizens to publicly voice their concerns, challenge injustices, and participate actively in the democratic process.
“Protests serve as a vital mechanism for holding leaders accountable and ensuring that government actions reflect the will and needs of the people.
“While we acknowledge these rights as provided for by the constitution, it is crucial to recognize the provisions of Section 45 of the Constitution, which underscores the importance of balancing individual rights with the collective need for public safety and order. As an organization committed to Public Safety and security, we emphasize the importance of exercising these rights responsibly and peacefully.
“We urge the government and its agents, particularly the Nigeria Police, who have a fundamental duty to ensure the safety and security of all citizens during such events to ensure that the protest is conducted in a safe environment.
“The government owes a duty to its citizens to provide adequate security to safeguard peaceful protesters from any elements that may seek to disrupt the event and cause chaos. Public safety must not be compromised.
The organisation disclosed that, for safety and compliance of security agencies with the universal principle of Human rights, its Situation Room would be open on Thursday, August 1, to monitor the conduct of Security personnel during the protest.
CLEEN Foundation calls for peace and continuous dialogue among all parties involved to address grievances and find amicable solutions. While we urge the government and security agencies to respect and protect the rights of citizens while maintaining law and order.
Below are the numbers to call to report incidences of rights violation, +234-7067899368, +234-8133051024, +234-8060023936, 09027146376, +234-8073342922.