The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has strongly condemned the reported blockade of the venue of the ‘Tinubu-Must-Go’ event in Kano by heavily armed police officers.
According to CITAD, this action raises serious concerns about the protection of fundamental human rights and the commitment of law enforcement institutions to democratic principles.
“We consider it unacceptable for the Nigeria Police Force to obstruct citizens from exercising their constitutionally guaranteed rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of association and expression. These rights are fundamental to democracy and must be respected regardless of citizens’ political affiliations, opinions or criticism of those in power.”
Continuing, the Civil Society body said, “The primary responsibility of the police is to protect citizens, maintain public order and facilitate the peaceful exercise of their rights—not to intimidate, suppress or obstruct lawful gatherings. The right to peaceful protest must not depend on whether the views expressed favour or oppose the government.”
CITAD called on the Inspector-General of Police, the National Security Adviser (NSA), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other relevant institutions to ensure that security agencies respect the Constitution and desist from actions that undermine civic freedoms. We urge the authorities to investigate this incident, establish accountability where violations are found, and issue clear directives against the arbitrary obstruction of peaceful political activities.
“We further warn that the repeated intimidation or restriction of opposition voices and peaceful protesters risks undermining public confidence in democratic institutions and narrowing the civic space ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Democracy cannot thrive where citizens are prevented from peacefully expressing dissent. The Nigerian government and its security agencies must uphold the rule of law, protect every citizen’s fundamental rights and ensure that political expression is treated equally, irrespective of whose interests are at stake.”
CITAD reiterated that peaceful dissent is not a crime, and no government or security institution should place itself above the Constitution.
