Rights Groups Caution Against Sponsored Attacks On Falana

The Nigerian Human Rights Community, (NHRC) has warned against sponsored protests organised to condemn and berate human rights activist, Mr Femi Falana.

The coalition said such plots undermine the integrity and reputation of any democratic state while at the same time fuel the growth of tyranny.

The NHRC, a coalition of 130 civil society and community based organisations, said its members were appalled by the irresponsible conducts of certain individuals paid to undermine the historic contributions of the Nigerian foremost human rights leader.

“Few days ago, a tattered, sponsored rally was organised in Abuja condemning Falana’s criticisms of the military. The protest was led by one Solomon Semaka who by his actions has written his name in the book of infamy.

The protesters held up banners with inscriptions like ”Falana stop blackmailing Nigerian military” and ”Falana enough is enough”.

The statement signed by Mallam Kudu Abubakar and Taiwo Adeleye on behalf of NHRC accused the protesters of attacking the very principle and foundation of democracy.

The Group said criticism is the oil that lubricates the engine of democracy and that no government that values human rights and free speech should ever make any attempt to scuttle dissent.

“This action of a few scavengers is ridiculous. It is an attack on free speech and a dangerous pattern that may promote counter measures from Nigerian masses who largely support the historic interventions of Mr Falana in the affairs of bad governance in Nigeria spanning over four decades,” the NHRC said.

Falana is an asset to Nigeria, without his intervention and sacrifices he and others made, there would be no democracy in Nigeria. To attempt to undermine his contributions to development and consolidation of democracy in Nigeria is a very dangerous trend that all men and women of conscience must oppose with all strength and every sense of responsibility.

“Unknown to these sponsored protesters, Mr Falana has defended the rights of several security officials including the military from infractions and gross abuse by state and non-state actors. He has even saved many military personnel from death sentences imposed on them. The current military leaders fail to realise that in the nearest future, they might again need protection from human rights abuse since no Nigerian is absolutely free from state persecution.

The NHRC cautioned the military suspected to have provided the funds for the protesters to be careful not to provoke Nigerians from staging counter protests.