*Warns law enforcement to stop harassing human rights defenders

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for an immediate halt to

arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and harassment of journalists, activists, and human rights defenders by law enforcement agencies. Issued during the NHRC’s March human rights report, the advisory emphasizes the need for law enforcement to respect the right to freedom of expression unless absolutely necessary for national security or public order, ensuring that such actions are legally justified and proportional.

The NHRC’s advisory, signed by Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu, specifically targets the misuse of the Cybercrime Act, which has been increasingly used to justify arbitrary arrests, thus undermining free speech. It highlights that arbitrary arrests or threats against individuals expressing dissenting opinions are strictly prohibited.

Ojukwu also stressed the importance of the judiciary and police respecting citizens’ rights and ensuring fair hearings in all arrests, particularly under the Cybercrime Act, which should not be used to detain individuals indefinitely. The NHRC has vowed to continue monitoring the situation and protect citizens’ freedom of expression in the face of growing intimidation.

This advisory marks the NHRC’s second major intervention on the issue in eight months, with the first addressing the management of protests. Despite previous advisories, security forces have continued to use excessive force, as seen in high-profile cases such as the

arrest of Omoyele Sowore and the ongoing harassment of journalists like Chinonso Uba. The NHRC remains vocal in condemning these actions, urging accountability for those who violate citizens’ rights.

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