The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has issued a strong condemnation of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of severe violations of human rights and democratic principles. 

“Human rights are not only violated by terrorism, repression or assassination, but also by unfair economic structures that creates huge inequalities.”

Okechukwu Nwanguma, Executive Director of RULAAC, criticized the government’s tactics, including the harassment and arrest of dissenters, which have fostered a climate of fear and repression in Nigeria.

Nwanguma stated, “President Tinubu’s thick skin over growing concerns about his government’s outrageous actions undermines democracy and threatens national stability. The misuse of terrorism charges against peaceful activists and the judiciary’s complicity in these actions raise serious alarms about the rule of law and the protection of citizens’ rights.”

To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” Nelson Mandela

The administration has been accused of eroding democratic values, failing to ensure freedom of expression, and not addressing public grievances effectively. RULAAC’s call to action urges President Tinubu to respect democratic principles, engage with citizens, and address challenges such as hardship and insecurity.

Nwanguma emphasized the urgent need for the government to halt further clampdowns and abuses of power, including reported plans to arrest activist Omoyele Sowore. “It is fundamental to rebuild trust between the government and the populace by prioritizing human rights. 

“A right delayed is a right denied.” – Martin Luther King, Jr

Civil society must intensify advocacy and civic engagement to ensure that the rights of all Nigerians are upheld,” he added.