The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the alleged brutality against Joe Ajaero, the National President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), in Imo state on Wednesday, describing it as a violation of his fundamental rights.
Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Anthony Ojukwu, denounced the attack on Mr Ajaero, stating that it infringed upon his right to peaceful protest. Speaking in Abuja on Friday, Mr Ojukwu emphasized the importance of respecting individuals’ rights to peaceful protest and freedom of expression, as they are vital for the progress of both human and Nigerian society.
The NLC alleged that Mr Ajaero was taken from the state secretariat of the congress to an undisclosed location where he was subjected to brutalization. Mr Ojukwu condemned this act, terming it a gross violation of Mr Ajaero’s human rights, as well as the rights of other Nigerians who may choose to use protests as a means of voicing their grievances against authorities.
“This reprehensible act is a flagrant violation of human rights, as well as an affront to democracy and the rule of law,” said Mr Ojukwu. “The brutality inflicted upon Mr Joe Ajaero, a senior labour leader, epitomizes impunity and constitutes a direct attack on individuals’ fundamental rights to freely associate and express their opinions, which are the hallmarks of a democratic society like ours.”
The NHRC reiterated that in a democratic nation like Nigeria, the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression must be respected and upheld, regardless of any discomfort experienced by law enforcement agents. Mr Ojukwu called upon the relevant authorities to promptly investigate this disturbing incident, bring the perpetrators to justice, and ensure such acts of brutality never recur or go unpunished.
He stressed the need for those responsible for this brutality to be held accountable, sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated in society. The use of force and violence when arresting unarmed civilians, he added, is unethical and contradicts international best practices for the promotion and protection of human rights.
“The NHRC remains committed to upholding human rights, protecting freedom of expression, and ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals in the country,” stated Mr Ojukwu. “Through this medium, I call upon law enforcement agencies to exercise restraint and uphold democratic principles and respect for human rights when dealing with unarmed civilians in the enforcement of law and order.”
“Together, we can build a society where the rights and freedoms of every citizen are safeguarded, respected, and tolerated, and acts of violence and intimidation have no place,” he concluded.
