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…Urges Human Rights Groups to Monitor Protest in Order to Ensure Protesters Rights Are Not Breached.
Dear Nigerians, Happy Independence Day!
On behalf of the African Law Students’ Association (ALSA), Nigeria, I extend my warmest wishes and heartfelt prayers to every Nigerian on this 64th Independence Day anniversary. May this day remind us of the resilience, strength, and unity that our forefathers envisioned when they fought for the freedom we enjoy today. As we reflect on the progress we’ve made as a nation, we pray for peace, prosperity, and unity for our beloved country. May Nigeria continue to rise to greater heights, and may every citizen find fulfillment in our collective journey towards nation-building.
However, as we celebrate this monumental day, it is important that we do not shy away from the realities that confront us as a people. Over 130 million of our citizens currently live in multidimensional poverty, battling the harsh realities of economic hardship. The rate of inflation has eroded the purchasing power of many families, with food and basic commodities now beyond the reach of millions. Insecurity continues to plague several regions of the country, with many Nigerians questioning if we are truly independent when our people still live in fear of violence and lawlessness.
While we must commend the recent operations of our military forces, particularly their success in wiping out hundreds of bandits terrorizing our communities in Zamfara, there is no denying that much more remains to be done. The fight against insurgency, terrorism, and banditry is far from over. We call on the government and relevant security agencies to remain relentless in securing the lives and properties of Nigerians. Despite these challenges, I urge all Nigerians not to lose hope. Nigeria is our only country, and no matter how tough the situation may seem today, we must hold on to the belief that our nation will be great again-perhaps not today, but someday.
As we continue to hope for a better tomorrow, I would like to address an important matter unfolding in our country today: the October 1st protest, tagged “Fearless in October”, organized by concerned Nigerian youths. These young Nigerians, unhappy with the state of the nation, are choosing to exercise their constitutional right to peaceful protest to express their grievances. As a nation committed to democracy and the rule of law, we must recognize that peaceful protest is a legitimate tool for the expression of dissent in any healthy democracy.
I strongly urge human rights groups to be vigilant in monitoring these protests to ensure that the rights of these protesters are not infringed upon. Law enforcement agencies must act with utmost professionalism and guarantee the protection and safety of innocent citizens during these protests. It is vital that the voices of our people are heard without fear of intimidation or violation of their rights. Peaceful demonstrations should never be met with violence or unlawful suppression.
The African Law Students’ Association, Nigeria remains committed to protecting the rights of law students, and advocating for the upholding of the rule of law in our country. We believe in the promise of democracy, where every Nigerian has the right to live freely, voice their concerns, and contribute to nation-building, without fear of oppression.
Let us use this Independence Day to renew our faith in Nigeria. Together, through unity, determination, and respect for the rule of law, we will build a country that we can all be proud of.
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
Long live ALSA Nigeria!
Signed,
Amb Shuaibu Bashir Mukaddam, GCOA
National President,
African Law Students’ Association (ALSA), Nigerian Chapter.
