A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) is calling on the Nigerian government to withdraw a defamation lawsuit against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP). The lawsuit, initiated by the State Security Services (SSS), claims SERAP falsely accused its operatives of invading its office in Abuja.
Key Takeaways
- A coalition of nine CSOs, including Amnesty International, demands the withdrawal of a N5.5 billion libel case against SERAP.
- The lawsuit is seen as part of a broader crackdown on human rights defenders and civil society organizations in Nigeria.
- Activists warn that such actions undermine Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.
Background of the Case
In October, the SSS filed a N5.5 billion defamation suit against SERAP, alleging that the organization made false claims regarding an alleged invasion of its office. This legal action has raised concerns among various human rights groups about the increasing repression of civil society in Nigeria.
The coalition of CSOs, which includes notable organizations such as Accountability Lab, BudgIT, and the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), issued a statement urging the government to cease its harassment of human rights defenders and journalists. They argue that the government’s actions contradict Nigeria’s commitments under international human rights treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
Concerns Over Human Rights Violations
The statement from the coalition highlights several alarming trends in Nigeria, including:
- Escalating Crackdown: The government’s actions are seen as an attempt to intimidate civil society organizations and suppress dissent.
- Chilling Effect: The targeting of activists and journalists is likely to deter individuals from advocating for human rights and accountability.
- Impunity: The ongoing harassment fosters a culture of impunity among those who violate human rights.
Recent Incidents of Repression
The coalition pointed to several recent incidents that illustrate the growing repression under the current administration:
- Invasion of CDHR Office: Armed security personnel invaded the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) office in Lagos in August.
- Arrest of NLC President: Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, was arbitrarily arrested by the SSS in September.
- Violence Against Protesters: Reports indicate that law enforcement agencies used live ammunition against peaceful protesters during the #EndBadGovernance protests.
These incidents have raised alarms about the safety of civil society actors and the broader implications for democracy in Nigeria.
Call to Action
The coalition is urging the Tinubu administration to:
- Withdraw the Libel Case: Immediate cessation of the lawsuit against SERAP.
- End Harassment: Stop the intimidation of human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society organizations.
- Uphold Human Rights: Ensure that the government adheres to its constitutional and international obligations regarding human rights.
The ongoing legal battle against SERAP is emblematic of a larger struggle for human rights and accountability in Nigeria. Activists fear that without significant changes, the environment for civil society will continue to deteriorate, further endangering the rights of citizens and the integrity of democratic institutions in the country.
Sources
- Amnesty International, CJID, seven other groups ask Nigerian govt to withdraw libel case against SERAP, Premium Times Nigeria.
