Prominent human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, has issued a stern warning to Nigerian youths protesting against hunger, hardship, and socio-economic policies to avoid actions that could undermine the objectives of their peaceful demonstrations.
Speaking to newsmen on Monday, Falana emphasized the need for protesters to be cautious of thugs and undemocratic forces who might exploit the situation for violent ends or to campaign for a military coup.
Falana’s caution comes in the wake of violent protests in Northern Nigeria, where demonstrators were seen brandishing Russian flags and chanting anti-government slogans.
He condemned such actions as an abuse of constitutional rights, particularly the act of brandishing a foreign flag while protesting within the country.
“The right to protest must be exercised peacefully within the ambit of the law,” Falana stated.
“Section 83(4) of the Police Establishment Act 2020 mandates the Nigeria Police Force to provide adequate security for public meetings, rallies, and protests. In many regions, the police have commendably upheld this duty, ensuring the safety of #endbadgovernance protesters.”
Having championed the right of Nigerians to protest against unpopular government policies, Falana reiterated his support for peaceful demonstrations. However, he highlighted the patriotic duty to distance from those who incite violence or call for unconstitutional changes in government.
“It is necessary to point out that calling for a military coup or waving the Russian flag constitutes a gross abuse of the constitutional right to protest. The legitimate protests against hardship should not be hijacked by those seeking unconstitutional changes.”
Falana urged the current administration to address the root causes of the protests by reviewing policies that exacerbate poverty and hardship. He warned that those promoting another military rule risk being accused of treasonable felony, a severe offense under Nigerian law.
“The Bola Tinubu administration must take urgent steps to make any form of unconstitutional change unattractive by addressing the socio-economic challenges facing the nation,” Falana concluded.