East Chicago, Indiana – November 23, 2015 – Igbo League Inc., a US based human rights organization issued a statement today in support of the position taken by International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law, and Southeast Human Rights Coalition with respect to demonstrations in the South-east and South- south regions of Nigeria, demanding the release of Mr. Nnamdi Kanu and the agitation for self-determination.
Articles 19 and 20 of the United Nation’s Charter to which Nigeria is a signatory, expressly protects the rights of individuals to assembly and exercise free speech. According to Dr. Ejike Obasi, Chairman, Board of Directors, “President Muhammadu Buhari and the (Nigerian) armed forces under his command have the sacred and sworn duty to protect ALL Nigerian citizens including those who are engaged in peaceful protests. As bona fide Nigerian citizens, these protestors should be allowed to exercise their rights, free of State mandated intimidation regardless of whether or not the content of their speech is pleasing to the government”.
It is also important that the State Governors as chief security officers in their respective states take seriously their responsibility to protect lives of residents engaged in lawful exercise of their rights to free speech. The international community will hold them accountable for their inability to reign in overzealous security operatives who cause any loss of life.
The Igbo League recognizes that the current agitation for Biafra represents a response to years of frustration by citizens who feel completely disenfranchised and voiceless in Nigeria. Hence, the planned meeting between leaders of the protest marches, Southeastern Governors and other stakeholders is a step in the right direction. The current administration needs to pay close attention to these discussions and help find solutions that address the root cause of the demonstrations because this state of discontent is more widespread than it may appear on the surface. Nigeria does not need an “Arab spring” type popular revolt with its attendant insecurity and anarchy.
Contact:
Kanayo K. Odeluga MD.MPH
Executive Director, I
gbo League, Inc.
www.igboleague.org