Protesters storm the Federal High Court in Abuja, demanding the release of Omoyele Sowore. Activists accuse the police of intimidation and misplaced priorities. Activists Rally Against Intimidation, Call for Sowore’s Freedom A wave of protests erupted at the Federal High Court in Abuja as #EndBadGovernance activists demanded the immediate release of activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore. The demonstrators accused security forces of using intimidation tactics to suppress dissent, emphasizing their stand against what they described as political oppression. Why Was Sowore Detained? Sowore was summoned on multiple allegations, including: He later took to X.com (formerly Twitter) to claim that his legal troubles were politically motivated, citing his vocal criticism of Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun’s tenure extension. However, following a meeting with the Force Intelligence Department of the Nigeria Police Force, Sowore announced that he had been granted bail. Protesters Slam Authorities for Misplaced Priorities Despite the heavy presence of security forces on Wednesday, protesters remained defiant. One demonstrator criticized the government’s approach, accusing the authorities of prioritizing the suppression of activists over addressing rising insecurity in Abuja. “Police officers are here to intimidate peaceful demonstrators while Abuja is facing serious security challenges. Instead of deploying personnel to crime-ridden areas, they are stationed here to suppress citizens. This reflects the misplaced priorities of this administration and the illegal Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun,” the protester stated. Public Outcry Over Sowore’s Detention The protest underscores growing discontent with governance in Nigeria, particularly regarding the suppression of dissenting voices. Many activists argue that Sowore’s detention is part of a broader strategy to silence critics of the government. The #EndBadGovernance movement continues to gain traction as citizens push for accountability, justice, and better governance. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Amnesty International (AI) has called for Boko Haram to be held accountable for the years of atrocities and war crimes it has committed against Nigerian civilians. This comes as human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), condemned the harassment and legal threats directed at Amnesty International Nigeria (AIN). Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have also urged President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action to end the alleged intimidation of the rights group. AIN’s Director, Isa Sanusi, spoke out after the brutal attack by Boko Haram on farming communities in Borno State on January 12, where over 40 civilians were killed. Sanusi condemned the massacre, highlighting Boko Haram’s utter disregard for human life and international humanitarian law. “Boko Haram must be held to account for its years of atrocities,” Sanusi said. “Our investigation found that Boko Haram gathered farmers and fishermen, separated the men, and shot them at close range. Those attempting to escape were chased down and killed, while others were injured.” The search for bodies continues, with plans for a mass burial for the victims. Sanusi emphasized that Boko Haram’s ongoing abductions and widespread looting remain a serious threat to civilians, stressing that urgent measures are needed to protect the public and ensure justice for victims. Since 2020, Boko Haram has specifically targeted farmers around Lake Chad. Meanwhile, Falana condemned the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) for intimidating Amnesty International simply for fulfilling its legitimate duties. The NPF had, through a letter on January 6, 2025, demanded a retraction and public apology regarding AI’s publication on police violence during the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests. The police refuted the accusations, calling them false and unsubstantiated. Falana responded, criticizing the legal threats as harassment aimed at stifling free speech and activism. Several CSOs, including the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), and 64 others, condemned the police’s actions. They called on the Nigerian government to halt the escalating crackdown on activists, human rights defenders, and journalists, and to ensure that Nigerians can freely exercise their rights without fear of retaliation. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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President Tinubu’s promise of a 30-day National Youth Conference remains unfulfilled three months later, sparking outrage from civil society groups and young Nigerians demanding accountability and urgent reforms. Tinubu’s National Youth Conference: Unkept Promise Fuels Youth Frustration Months after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu promised a 30-day National Youth Conference in response to the #EndBadGovernance protests, Nigerians are questioning his administration’s commitment to addressing youth-related issues. The announcement, made during the October 1 Independence Day broadcast, had raised hopes for tangible dialogue and solutions. However, three months later, the promised conference remains unorganized, prompting criticism from civil society organizations (CSOs) and youth leaders. Promised Engagement Nowhere in Sight Chief Patrick Eholor, Founder of One Love Foundation, criticized the delay, stating, “The Youth Confab was a critical opportunity for the government to engage young people facing systemic challenges such as unemployment and lack of basic amenities. This silence is a betrayal of their hopes.” Civil society voices echo similar sentiments. According to Global Rights Nigeria, Tinubu’s promise appeared more like a tactical move to quell tensions than a genuine effort to tackle youth grievances. Structural Issues Plague Leadership Response Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, expressed concern over the delayed implementation. “This lack of urgency underscores the government’s failure to prioritize youth development,” he said. ActionAid emphasizes that meaningful change requires swift, inclusive action rather than rhetorical promises. Additionally, the Executive Director of Global Rights Nigeria, Abiodun Baiyewu, underscored the importance of addressing root issues: “Systemic rot in law enforcement, corruption, and unemployment must be tackled. A youth conference alone cannot resolve these entrenched challenges.” Renewed Skepticism Among Youth The silence surrounding the promised conference has fostered growing disillusionment among young Nigerians. Many fear the government’s reluctance to act signifies an unwillingness to disrupt the status quo. Auwal Rafsanjani, Executive Secretary of CISLAC, emphasized the importance of sustained youth inclusion in governance. “Nigeria’s youth, representing over 70% of the population, must have a seat at the table. Their marginalization drives restiveness, brain drain, and diminishing patriotism,” Rafsanjani said. The Path Forward: Actions Over Promises As the February 2025 date for the conference approaches, experts stress the need for actionable outcomes. Suggestions include: Civil society leaders argue that delays in implementing promises like the National Youth Conference undermine trust in governance. With youth unemployment and inflation at record highs, young Nigerians demand more than symbolic gestures—they need urgent, transformative action. Key Takeaways By acting decisively and inclusively, the Tinubu administration has an opportunity to restore hope and empower Nigeria’s youth to drive the nation forward. READ ALSO;; Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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In 2024, Nigeria faced alarming levels of insecurity and human rights violations, with over 526 people killed and 949 kidnapped in violent attacks nationwide, according to the Nigeria 2024 Annual Human Rights Report. These figures underscore the escalating security challenges in the country, exacerbated by kidnapping, banditry, and communal clashes. Human Rights Day Report HighlightsLaunched in Abuja on December 10 to mark Human Rights Day, the report by the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) sheds light on critical violations, including extrajudicial killings, police brutality, and unlawful detentions, despite constitutional and international safeguards. Systemic Issues in Law EnforcementPLAC’s Executive Director, Clement Nwankwo, highlighted systemic flaws within security agencies, citing abuse of power, harassment, extortion, and even sexual violence by officials. These violations have deepened citizens’ mistrust in law enforcement and amplified the culture of impunity. “Victims of human rights abuse often face delays in justice and a lack of transparency in investigations,” the report stated. “This systemic failure undermines Nigeria’s rule of law and fosters frustration among citizens.” Cybercrimes Act AmendmentOne positive development in 2024 was the amendment of Section 24 of the Cybercrimes Act, narrowing the definition of cyberstalking. This reform aims to reduce the misuse of the law to silence journalists and individuals critical of the government. Despite this progress, arbitrary arrests and detentions over alleged defamatory publications persisted. Socio-Economic ChallengesEconomic hardships, fueled by rising petroleum prices and a depreciating naira, significantly impacted Nigerians’ socio-economic rights. Inflation surged, driving up the cost of living and sparking widespread #EndBadGovernance protests in August. These demonstrations highlighted citizens’ discontent with worsening economic conditions. Vulnerable Groups: Children and Gender-Based ViolenceThe report also spotlighted violations against vulnerable groups, including children and women. Child trafficking, forced labor, and abduction continue to rob children of safety and dignity. Gender-based violence (GBV) remains prevalent, with documented cases ranging from domestic abuse to targeted killings. “In 2024, 28 cases of trafficking and sexual violence were recorded, though many incidents go unreported,” the report noted, calling for urgent government action. Recommendations for Policy ReformsThe report urges the government to adopt comprehensive policies addressing poverty alleviation, job creation, and educational opportunities while tackling inflation. Ensuring full implementation of the Child Rights Act and Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act across all states is critical to safeguarding vulnerable groups. On security, PLAC advocates for strategic reforms to address systemic flaws in law enforcement, enhance accountability, and rebuild trust between citizens and the authorities. ConclusionThe 2024 Nigeria Human Rights Report paints a sobering picture of a nation grappling with widespread rights violations and economic challenges. As citizens continue to demand accountability and justice, urgent action by the government is essential to protect lives, restore trust, and promote socio-economic rights. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Kenneth Okonkwo of the Labour Party (LP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to offer an apology to the children who were arraigned as part of the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations. In response to several demonstrators who were charged last week for demonstrating against poor governance in August, he made the call on Tuesday while appearing as a guest on Arise Television. The youngsters must receive compensation, according to Okonkwo, who called the charges against them “wrong.” “The president must apologize to those children and provide them with appropriate compensation,” he stated. It was a grave mistake. The accusations were incorrect. “The method used to hold them was incorrect. The arraignment procedure was incorrect. During the entire process, they were simply mistreated, hungry, and mistreated. The police ought to express regret to them. Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi was ordered by President Tinubu on Monday to drop the charges against the youngsters. A federal high court in Abuja dismissed the lawsuit against 119 people who were reportedly involved in the protest on Tuesday. READ ALSO: Tinubu criminally hijacked 2023 election from me, Atiku cries out
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The Federal High Court in Abuja has set a bail bond of N10 million for each of the 114 protesters, both adults and minors, accused of arson against police stations, the High Court Complex, and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Complex during the End Bad Governance protests. This totals an impressive N1,140,000,000, and the defendants are required to present two sureties with equivalent financial backing. Justice Obiora Egwatu granted this bail on Friday after considering arguments from the defense lawyers as well as representatives from the Inspector General of Police (IGP). Additionally, reports from Nairametrics indicate that these individuals are part of a larger group facing legal scrutiny. They join ten other defendants in a separate case (suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/454/2024) in another court. These ten have been accused of colluding with a British national, Andrew Martin Wynne, to undermine Nigeria’s stability and intimidate President Bola Tinubu by allegedly attacking police officers and setting fire to multiple public facilities, including police stations, the High Court Complex, and the NCC Complex, among others. READ ALSO: Shehu Sani calls on FG to free protesters who have been jailed. We love having you back, kindly Subscribe to our NewsLetter.
