CODER Urges Tinubu to Immediately Release Detained Journalists and Protesters

The Coalition for Democratic Accountability and Electoral Reform (CODER) has expressed its outrage and concern in a letter to President Bola Tinubu, condemning the detention and unfair trial of journalists, protesters, and prisoners of conscience advocating for an end to bad governance and a better Nigeria.

In the letter dated September 2, 2024, and signed by Chief Peter Ameh, CODER’s coordinator, the group criticized the administration for what they view as a violation of fundamental human rights and an attempt to silence dissenting voices.

“It is unacceptable that your administration continues to infringe on the rights of citizens who are advocating for a just and equitable society,” the letter, shared with NIGERIA NEWS 247, states.

“We demand the immediate release of these detainees and the dismissal of all charges against them.

“We also urge your administration to address the underlying issues that sparked these protests, such as corruption, inequality, and social injustice.

“The ongoing detention of these individuals tarnishes Nigeria’s democracy and undermines the trust in the government as a genuine representative of the people.

“We expect a stronger response to these concerns and a firm commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens.

“The right to protest is a fundamental human right, recognized by various international and regional instruments, including the United Nations Charter (Article 20), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Article 21), the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Article 11), and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Section 40).

“These documents emphasize the importance of protest as a tool for expressing grievances, promoting accountability, and advocating for change.

“Your administration appears to have failed to uphold these principles in its dealings with peaceful protesters.

“Remember, you were once a young protester seeking a better country. Is this now just a façade to power, or did you genuinely intend to bring about change?”