Ilorin, Nigeria — The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) has called for accountability following a violent confrontation with peaceful protesters at the Kwara State Government House. The incident, which involved women advocating for government action against ongoing kidnappings, has sparked outrage regarding the treatment of civilians in Nigeria’s current climate of insecurity.
In a recent statement issued by CHSR President Alex Omotehinse, it was highlighted that the protesters, who hailed from the Oke-Ode community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, were demanding intervention as their loved ones remain missing due to abductions. Footage from the protest captured an elderly woman in distress, expressing the deep pain of her community.
Reports indicate that the protest, which began peacefully, escalated when a group of men armed with sticks violently confronted the demonstrators. CHSR condemned this attack as an egregious violation of human rights, claiming that the women posed no threat but rather were exhibiting a desperate plea for assistance in their time of need.
“These women were grieving and desperate for clarity on the fate of their family members,” the organization stated. “It is a tragedy when those calling for protection and justice face such barbaric actions instead.” CHSR further criticized the apparent inaction of security forces present during the incident, suggesting that their lack of intervention raises serious questions about their commitment to protecting citizens.
The group expressed deep concern that such violence against peaceful demonstrators threatens the foundations of governance and the rule of law in Nigeria. In their view, aggressive suppression of citizens’ rights contradicts the country’s constitutional protections for lawful assembly and protest.
CHSR emphasized that families affected by kidnappings have reported receiving little to no information from authorities, contributing to their sense of desperation and prompting peaceful protests. They asserted that normalizing violence against dissenters could create an environment where cries for justice are met with force rather than support.
The organization called upon both Kwara State and federal authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and hold accountable all parties involved in the attack. They also demanded transparency from the security agencies present at the protest, urging a commitment to protecting the rights and safety of citizens rather than undermining them.
“The right to peaceful protest is a cornerstone of democracy,” the statement concluded. “The escalation of violence against those seeking justice must be resisted, and those responsible must be brought to justice.”