Amnesty International has condemned recent statements made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, declaring that the FCT is not available for protesters.
Amnesty International described Wike’s comments as “reckless and misguided.”
In a statement on Friday, Amnesty International emphasized that peaceful assembly in the FCT is a fundamental human right that must be respected. The organization expressed serious concern over the growing tendency of government officials to undermine the legitimacy of peaceful protests through veiled threats and misleading insinuations.
The human rights organisation stated, “condemns the reckless and misguided statements attributed to Mr Wike,” who was quoted by the media as saying, “FCT is not available for protesters.”
“peaceful assembly in the FCT is a fundamental human right that must be respected.”
“We note with concern the recent disturbing trend of veiled threats laced with false insinuations aimed at delegitimising peaceful protesters and protests. Harmful rhetoric from government officials must not be used to justify the violation of human rights,” Amnesty International added.
Wike’s remarks came in response to the planned nationwide protests on August 1, which aim to address the heightened economic challenges faced by citizens, including soaring food prices under Chief Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Wike stated that the FCT would not be available for protests on that day due to a scheduled celebration for traditional rulers.
Wike in a press briefing on Thursday, stated, “That day (August 1) is not available for those who want to protest, and the FCT is not available for the protesters,”
He added, “That is the day the FCT has set aside for the entire area councils to jubilate, to give out certificates of recognition for their traditional rulers. We will not allow that day, which the FCT has set aside to honour their traditional rulers for their people to rejoice, to be disrupted by protests. We will not allow it.”
Mr. Wike’s warning comes amid mobilization efforts for nationwide demonstrations and advisory warnings from the Oba of Benin and several clerics urging youth not to participate in the protests. Additionally, security agencies have continued to detain citizens supporting or organizing such activities.
In response to the announced protests, the Nigerian government has initiated measures, including rice distribution and raising the minimum wage to N70,000, in an attempt to pacify public discontent amidst the economic challenges.
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