The recent arrest of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, and the occupation of the Abuja office of the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) by the Department of State Services (DSS) raise significant concerns about Nigeria’s commitment to upholding human rights.
Development Diaries reports that SERAP had earlier given President Bola Tinubu a 48-hour ultimatum to reverse the outrageous hike in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and probe the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.
While the NLC president has been released, and while the DSS has claimed that its invasion of SERAP’s office was legal, these actions, taken against individuals and organisations advocating for accountability and transparency, suggest a troubling trend of suppressing dissent and undermining freedom of expression.
The arrest of Ajaero shows an approach that appears more focused on silencing critics and such actions are contrary to the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
Moreover, the invasion of SERAP’s office following its public call for accountability in the management of national resources further deepens concerns about the government’s tolerance for scrutiny and criticism.
SERAP’s demands for an investigation into alleged corruption within the NNPCL are aligned with citizens’ rights to transparency and accountability from their leaders.
The response by the DSS not only appears to be an overreach of power but also suggests an attempt by President Tinubu’s government to intimidate civil society organisations (CSOs) that play a crucial role in holding the government accountable.
Most importantly, these incidents contribute to an already growing trust deficit between Nigerian citizens and their government.
When government agencies are perceived as tools for suppression rather than guardians of public interest, it erodes citizens’ confidence in their leaders’ willingness to respect and protect their rights.
The lack of transparency regarding Ajaero’s arrest and the vague justifications for the invasion of SERAP’s office questions the government’s opacity and unaccountability.
Citizens are left questioning the motives behind these actions, leading to increased skepticism about the government’s commitment to upholding democratic values and principles.
In light of these developments, Development Diaries calls on President Tinubu to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to human rights and the rule of law by calling the DSS to order.
Failure to do so tends to damage Nigeria’s international reputation and also widen the trust gap between the government and citizens, jeopardising the social contract that is fundamental to democratic governance.
Photo source: OfficialDSSNG
