Stop tormenting Igboho, civil society tells Nigerian government

The South-West Civil Society Security Forum  has called on the Nigerian Government to stop tormenting the Yoruba nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo popularly called Igboho, stressing need to  guarantee his safety  and rights.

Penpushing reports that, the forum at the end of its second virtual meeting to review the security situation across the South-West, stressed  that Igboho  needs to have fair hearing within the context of the rule of law

The Chairman, of the Forum Oyebisi  Oluseyi in a statement, said the forum on review of security situation across the South-West,  appealed to the President  and security agencies to guarantee the safety of all citizens across the country.

“We recognise the right of citizens to peaceful protest and non-violent agitations in their rights to self-determination and are concerned by the turn of events in the last few months and days. These are already difficult moments for our country as it navigates the triple crisis affecting health, economy, and society

Penpushing further reports that, the forum took notice of the Gestapo-like attack by men of the customs service in an unmarked vehicle unleashing mayhem on the already tensed town of Igangan killing an Amotekun official in the process; the attack on the Soka residence of  Igboho and various unreported kidnappings in the region.

The forum while commiserating with Oyo State Government and people of the state on the death of the Amotekun Commander called for more synergy on the part of security agencies and respect for the rule of law in the engagements within the region and elsewhere.

Penpushing also reports that, the Steering Committee member of the Civil Society Pillar of the Community of Democracy emphasised that the President , Governors, and National Assembly members should commit to addressing issues of injustice and inequality that is prevalent across several Nigerian communities and immediately develop a national response plan to managing the country’s challenges.

The forum expressed worry about the recent directive by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to the Media on security reportage, pointing out that the act has the potential of gagging the media and stifling free press.

‘The failure of government at all levels to seize the moment in addressing citizens concerns and respect for their human rights will not only harm our efforts to build back from the COVID-19 pandemic and to set our country back on the path to prosperity but will make it even harder to attain a peaceful co-existence”.

The forum warned that the level of poverty, insecurity, injustice, inequality, and discrimination witnessed by citizens daily is now at an alarming rate requiring immediate action on the part of traditional rulers, private sector, civil society, citizens, and government.

‘The growing concerns raised by citizens offers an invaluable insight into the issues affecting the nation offering the Nigerian government (Federal, State and Local) the opportunity to make it their political and policy priority throughout the life of this administration.

Penpushing also reports that the body appealed to the Benin Republic government to ensure that fundamental rights and principles associated with Igboho’s  rights are protected  in line with ECOWAS protocols.

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