CHSR Condemns Disruption of Protesters, Calls for United Action Against Insecurity

 

 The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) has condemned the reported disruption of peaceful protesters by individuals allegedly linked to the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), describing the incident as an attack on democratic rights and a troubling reflection of the country's worsening security challenges.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, CHSR expressed concern over what it described as the violent interruption of a protest organized by members of the Take-It-Back (TIB) Movement and other civil society groups. According to the organization, the protesters had gathered to mourn victims of insecurity and demand greater accountability from government authorities.

The rights group said the protest was driven by growing public outrage over recent security incidents, including the reported abduction of students in Oyo State and the killing of a male teacher. CHSR described the incidents as tragic reminders of the persistent insecurity affecting communities across the country.

The organization criticized the alleged actions of the student body members, arguing that student organizations should be at the forefront of advocacy for justice and public accountability rather than opposing peaceful demonstrations.

“The attack on peaceful protesters is not only barbaric but an assault on democratic values and citizens’ rights to express their grievances,” the statement said.

CHSR warned that insecurity has become a nationwide concern affecting citizens regardless of ethnicity, religion, or social status. The group noted that kidnappings, banditry, and attacks on innocent citizens continue to create fear and uncertainty across the country.

The organization also called on the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), and other civil society organizations to work together in demanding urgent action to address insecurity.

According to CHSR, the issue should not be viewed as affecting only specific sectors or groups but as a national emergency requiring collective action and peaceful advocacy.

Beyond security concerns, the group highlighted the economic difficulties facing many Nigerians, arguing that rising hardship has compounded the challenges citizens already face. It urged governments at all levels to implement policies aimed at easing the socio-economic burden on the population.

CHSR further called for an immediate and transparent investigation into the reported attack on protesters, protection of citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression, stronger government measures to tackle insecurity, and greater collaboration among labour unions and civil society groups in advocating for justice and public safety.

The organization concluded by urging authorities and stakeholders to prioritize compassion, justice, and national unity in responding to the concerns of Nigerians.

The statement was signed by Comrade Alex Omotehinse, President of the Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR).