Femi Falana Criticizes President Tinubu for Charging Peaceful Protesters with Treason and Terrorism

Nigerian human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has openly criticized the administration led by President Bola Tinubu for permitting the Nigerian police to bring charges of treason and terrorism against peaceful protesters, some of whom are minors.These charges were filed following protests that erupted over the significant economic difficulties affecting Nigerians, which many attribute to the government’s adherence to neoliberal policies advocated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.

The policies have been seen as contributing to rising living costs and a decline in the standard of living.Falana, a well-known advocate for civil and human rights with decades of experience, pointed out the irony of President Tinubu’s current stance. He reminded the public that Tinubu himself was once a victim of state repression and had to flee Nigeria during the era of General Sani Abacha’s military rule to avoid a death sentence from an oppressive dictatorship.

Today, under President Tinubu’s administration, we see a similar pattern of suppression. Peaceful demonstrators, including children, are being charged with treason simply for expressing their dissatisfaction with the economic hardships that have intensified due to policies influenced by the IMF and the World Bank,” Falana noted.The protests that led to these severe charges occurred in August 2024, when discontent over the surging cost of living and other economic challenges sparked demonstrations across the nation.

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These protests highlighted the deep frustration felt by many Nigerians over economic policies that they believe have worsened their situation. The government’s response, which included arresting and charging protesters with serious offenses like treason and terrorism, has drawn widespread criticism, raising concerns about the state of civil rights and freedom of expression in the country.Falana’s remarks underline the paradox of President Tinubu’s leadership, given his past experience as a political dissident under military rule. This context sheds light on the current administration’s handling of dissent, echoing historical patterns of repression and challenging the narrative of democratic progress.