Amnesty International (Nigeria) has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to refrain from mocking citizens amid ongoing hunger protests.
The organization criticized Akpabio’s statement suggesting that Nigerians could protest while he and others continue eating, labeling it as “utterly reckless.”
In a statement released on Thursday, Amnesty International highlighted the severe hardships faced by Nigerians due to federal government economic policies. The human rights organization condemned Akpabio’s remarks, asserting that taunting citizens who are seeking accountability through protest is unacceptable.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the insensitive and reckless comments attributed to the President of the Senate Godswill Obot Akpabio regarding plans of some Nigerians to peacefully protest current economic hardship. Taunting people seeking accountability is unacceptable,” the statement read.
Amnesty International emphasized that millions of Nigerians are on the brink of starvation due to corruption and mismanagement. The organization asserted that mocking those affected by these issues tarnishes the esteemed office held by Akpabio. They urged government officials to cease harmful and irresponsible rhetoric during these challenging times.
The organization further called on Nigerian authorities to ensure that security agencies respect and facilitate the right to peaceful protest, as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and human rights treaties, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
“The Nigerian authorities must ensure that security agencies respect and facilitate the right to peaceful protest, as guaranteed by both the country’s own constitution and human rights treaties,” Amnesty International stated.
