•Nigerian students
The National Association of Nigerian (NANS), today, called of President Bola Ahmed to halt the ongoing prosecution of all #Endbadgovernance protesters currently standing trials.
The apex students body, in a statement signed by Comrade Akinteye Afeez Babatunde, President of the Senate, NANS Headquarters, reminded the government that the right to peaceful assembly and protest is a fundamental pillar that cannot be compromised in a democratic setting.
The statement reads in parts, “It has come to our attention that several protesters are currently being prosecuted and have been charged to court. This action threatens the very fabric of our democracy, undermining the citizens’ rights to express their grievances and demand accountability from their leaders.
“We, therefore, make an earnest appeal to His Excellency, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to intervene in this matter with the urgency it requires. As the leader of our nation, you have consistently championed the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
“We urge you to demonstrate your commitment to these values by ensuring that the prosecution of these protesters is halted immediately.”
According to NANS, the affected individuals took to the streets not out of malice or disobedience but out of a deep-seated desire for change and improvement in the country, saying their voices deserved to be heard for correction.
“We believe in the capacity of this administration to engage in meaningful dialogue with its citizens, fostering an environment where differences can be aired and resolved peacefully.
“The prosecution of these protesters sets a dangerous precedent that could discourage civic engagement and stifle the very essence of our democracy.
“We, therefore, call on His Excellency to act swiftly in stopping this prosecution and ensuring that all charges are dropped. Let us work together to build a nation where freedom of expression is not just a theoretical right but a lived reality for every Nigerian,” NANS added.
