The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called on security agencies to ensure the unconditional release of peaceful protesters and journalists arrested on Wednesday during the commemoration of the first anniversary of the #EndSARS protest.
NBA’s President, Olumide Akpata, in a statement, noted that the arrest of peaceful protesters and journalists on lawful duty showed that the country and its security agencies have not learnt from last years’ experience.
Akpata, who directed the NBA Human Rights Committee to immediately spring into action to ensure the protection of the rights of those arrested, frowned at the failure of the various governments to compensate victims of police brutality, whose petitions have been upheld by the various #EndSARS panels.
Part of the statement reads: “It is regrettable that on the occasion of the anniversary of such a symbolic moment in our nation’s history, we do not appear to have learnt our lessons as symbolised by the arrest and detention of peaceful protesters exercising their fundamental human rights, and journalists going about their lawful duties at the Lekki Toll Plaza this morning.
“The NBA unequivocally calls for unconditional release of all peaceful protesters and journalists arrested today and hereby mandates the NBA Human Rights Committee to immediately spring into action to ensure the protection of their rights.
“I am, however, not under any illusion that the issues associated with police-citizen relations can be addressed by mere recommendations of quasi-judicial panels.
“A sustainable improvement in the quality of that relationship must consist of robust legislative intervention that addresses the structural problems of the Police Force itself as an institution, with particular concern to the welfare and discipline of the rank and file.
“It was in furtherance of this realisation, that the Nigerian Bar Association, is collaborating with the House of Representatives in its legislative response to the underlying issues.
“That intervention crystallised into a Bill repealing and re-enacting the Police Service Commission Act, which is due, now for Third Reading at the National Assembly.
“I am confident that the propositions in the draft Bill, when passed into Law, would achieve a significant landmark in the relationship between the citizens and the police.
“I want to conclude by honouring the memories of all those who have died due to police/SARS related brutality. In this regard, particular mention must be made of those who fell at the Lekki Toll Plaza on that fateful day.
“We are consoled by the fact that their ultimate sacrifice was not in vain. If anything, it has elicited a new national consciousness amongst the youths of Nigeria; one that would continue to be consolidated in the struggle for justice, equity, and fairness.
“They are the heroes of this hour. May their soul continue to rest in peace, and may their memory be a blessing to us.”