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From Jude Dangwam, Jos
The Citizens Coalition Against Corruption and Injustice has called for the unconditional release of over 200 peaceful protesters unlawfully arrested by security agencies while performing the constitutional rights of demanding good governance from their government.
The Co-Convener of the Coalition, Amb Chris Iyama in a statement yesterday alleged that Nigeria police suppressed, arrested and used live ammunition on peaceful protesters which has led to the death of over 30 citizens, including women and children.
He condemned in strong term the killings and arrest of the peaceful protesters alongside journalists in the last sixdays across the country,describing the development as a rape of democracy.
According to Iyama, “We have followed keenly the events of the last six days of the #EndBadGovernance protest across Nigeria and we want to register our displeasure and disappointment in the men of the Nigeria police.
“It is saddening to see police suppress, arrest and use live ammunition on peaceful protesters which has led to the death of over 30 citizens including women and children and the unlawful arrest and detention of over 200 peaceful protesters and Journalists.
“We have seen disturbing videos of the police officers manhandling journalists, using teargas and live ammunition on unarmed protesters, among them is the shocking video where the police was manhandling a physically challenged citizen in Bauchi state.
“This is very inhumane and shameful of an institution that it’s primary responsibility is to protect the citizens.” Iyama noted
The Co-convener reiterated that as a civil society and citizens coalition, they are with the people of Nigeria as they demand an end to bad governance.
“We express our deep concern over the government’s use of force on its citizen who are only asking the leaders to live up to the primary responsibility of the office they occupy.
“This is a rape of our democracy and a dishonour to the legacy of those who fought and laid down their life for future generations to live freely without oppression.” He stated
