ADC Slams Govt Over Crackdown on #FreeNnamdiKanu Protesters
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has slammed the Federal Government over the violent crackdown on protesters demanding the release of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, describing the action as a violation of citizens’ fundamental rights.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the ADC was more concerned about defending Nigerians’ rights to peaceful protest than debating the legality of Kanu’s detention.
“Without prejudice to why Nnamdi Kanu is being held, as a party, we’ve not made any statement on this,” Abdullahi said.
“What we are saying is that citizens have the right to demonstrate. They have the right to protest in support or against anything the government does or fails to do. That right is fundamental and sacrosanct.”
He explained that since Kanu’s case was still before the court, the ADC would not issue a comment on the matter.
“Kanu has not been convicted, and because the case is in court, we will not comment on it. If he were convicted, we could then debate why criminals and drug traffickers are being released while he is still held,” he added.
Abdullahi’s remarks followed the police’s dispersal of protesters in Abuja on Monday with tear gas.
The demonstrators, led by activist Omoyele Sowore, had gathered near Transcorp Hilton to demand Kanu’s release despite warnings and a court order restricting the protest.
The ADC spokesman condemned the restriction placed on the protesters, describing it as undemocratic.
“The National Assembly is the bastion of democracy in Nigeria. I am surprised that protesters are being stopped from going there. Citizens have the right to go to the National Assembly, submit letters, and hand petitions to their representatives. That is what democracy means,” he said.
Abdullahi also questioned the legality of any judicial order curtailing citizens’ freedom of expression.
“I don’t think the court has the right or power to take away the freedom of expression granted by the Constitution,” he stated.
The ADC maintained that while it would not interfere in Kanu’s legal case, it would continue to uphold citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
