NHRC Condemns Attack on NLC President in Imo

• The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) strongly condemns the assault on NLC President Joe Ajero during his arrest in Owerri, describing it as a violation of human rights and democratic principles
• The NHRC calls for a thorough investigation, the prosecution of perpetrators, and the upholding of democratic values, human rights, and restraint in law enforcement actions

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has strongly denounced the recent assault and violence during the arrest of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajero, in Owerri.

A press statement issued by NHRC’s Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages Department, Agharese Arase, reveals that the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, expressed his strong disapproval of the reported attack on Ajero. He characterized it as a deplorable act, a blatant violation of human rights, and an affront to democratic principles and the rule of law.

Dr. Ojukwu emphasized that in a democratic country like Nigeria, the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression must be respected and upheld, regardless of how uncomfortable it may be for law enforcement agents.

He called on the relevant authorities to promptly investigate the incident, bring the perpetrators to justice, and ensure that such acts of brutality are neither repeated nor tolerated.

“It is crucial that those responsible for this brutality are held accountable for their actions, sending a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated in our society.”

While lamenting the unethical use of force and violence to arrest unarmed civilians, Dr. Ojukwu stressed that such brutal acts go against international best practices for promoting and protecting human rights.

He further urged law enforcement agencies to exercise restraint and uphold the principles of democracy and respect for human rights when dealing with unarmed civilians while enforcing law and order.

“Together, we can build a society where every citizen’s rights and freedoms are safeguarded, respected, and upheld, and where acts of violence and intimidation have no place.”