The Foundation which made the call as Nigeria joins other countries of the world to celebrate Social Justice Day, also demanded that the government drop all the charges against the 11 Abuja #EndBadGovernance protesters.
The Conscience Foundation, a civic organisation, has called on the President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government to end indiscriminate arrests and detention of dissenting voices in the country.
The Foundation which made the call as Nigeria joins other countries of the world to celebrate Social Justice Day, also demanded that the government drop all the charges against the 11 Abuja #EndBadGovernance protesters.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its Media Director, Deborah Yusuf, the Foundation also demanded that the Department of State Services (DSS) stop the harassment of a protester, Engineer Khalid Aminu and all victims of state repression.
Yusuf stated that as the world observes Social Justice Day, “We strongly call on the Nigerian government to put an end to the ongoing trend of indiscriminate arrests and detentions of individuals who express dissenting views.”
He stressed that social justice is fundamentally built on the principles of fairness, equality, and respect for human rights, and it is crucial that these values are upheld in Nigeria.
“We can for dropping of charges against all end bad governance protesters and particularly Engineer Khalid Aminu who was been charged for defamation by Department of State Security for exposing inhuman treatment and torture when he was unjustly detained.”
Yusuf noted that over the years, there has been a disturbing pattern of silencing opposition voices through unlawful detentions, harassment, and the suppression of free speech.
“The act of stifling dissent through force undermines the core principles of democracy and creates an environment of fear and insecurity among citizens,” he added.
World day of social justice is an international day recognising the need to promote social justice, which includes efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion, gender inequality, unemployment, human rights and social protection.
Yusuf stated, “As the theme of this year implies Empowering Inclusion Bridging Gaps for social justice we call on the government to bridge the gaps between the rich and the poor for a good social justice system.
“We recognise the government’s responsibility to maintain peace and security, but we urge that this responsibility be exercised within the framework of respect for human rights and the rule of law.
“The arrest and detention of individuals based solely on their views, whether political, social, or otherwise, must stop immediately.
“As we commemorate Social Justice Day, a day dedicated to promoting fairness and equal opportunities for all, we reiterate the importance of protecting the rights of individuals to express their views without fear of retaliation.
“We call on the Nigerian government to: Respect and protect freedom of speech: Individuals should be free to express their opinions, engage in peaceful protest, and contribute to national dialogue without the threat of arrest or violence.
“End arbitrary detention and unlawful arrests: The government must ensure that all arrests and detentions are carried out in accordance with the law and due process, not used as a tool to silence criticism.
“Uphold democratic principles: In a democratic society, diverse opinions and open discourse are essential for growth and progress. It is critical that all Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliation, feel empowered to speak their minds and contribute to the betterment of the nation.
“Commit to social justice: As we mark Social Justice Day, we call on the Nigerian government to prioritise the principles of justice, equity, and accountability in its actions, ensuring that every citizen has access to their fundamental rights and freedoms.”
He added, “We stand in solidarity with those who have been unjustly targeted for speaking out and demand that the Nigerian government respects its international human rights obligations, upholds the rule of law, and protects the freedoms of all its citizens.
“Let us use this day to renew our commitment to the pursuit of justice for all and to the creation of a society where every individual can live freely, peacefully, and with dignity.”