NADECO USA: Tinubu is a product of many protests

The United States chapter of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO-USA) has expressed its support for the #EndBadGovernance protest, that commenced on August 1, on the condition that it remains non-violent and peaceful.

The President of NADECO USA, Dr. Lloyd Ukwu, made the remarks while addressing the issue on July 31, 2024.

Dr. Ukwu stated: “Today marks a crucial juncture in Nigeria’s political history and development.

“It is with utmost concern and unwavering resolve that I speak on behalf of NADECO USA regarding the forthcoming protest by the Nigerian people, dubbed ‘EndBadGovernance In Nigeria’

“NADECO USA unequivocally endorses and supports the planned peaceful protest, provided that it adheres to non-violence principles.”

The organization emphasized that freedom of expression is a fundamental human right protected under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

It noted: “Protests have long been a means for citizens to voice their concerns.”

The organization highlighted that Nigeria’s legal framework protects the constitutional right to expression, whether political or social.

They cautioned any attempts to suppress the protest through force would be a serious violation of democratic principles.

Such actions would also set a dangerous precedent for the nation.

NADECO: Tinubu is a product of numerous protests

NADECO reminded that President Bola Tinubu “is a product of incessant and numerous protests,” which began with Chief MKO Abiola’s June 12, 1993, annulled elections.

It emphasized that these protests have significantly shaped Nigeria’s political history.

The organization cited other protests that President Tinubu is said to have participated in or encouraged.

These include the April 14, 2014, protest against President Jonathan over insecurity, and the June 20, 2014, event in Ibadan where APC leaders and supporters displayed a mock coffin of Jonathan.

The group highlighted these instances as part of Tinubu’s history of involvement in political demonstrations.

The organization referenced several key protests involving President Tinubu.

These include the May 14, 2014, demonstration by the TUC, Tinubu and APC women over the Chibok girls on November 13, 2016, as well as protest by Tinubu’s supporters in Lagos.

Additionally, they noted the January 10, 2012, protest in Lagos where Soyinka, Bakare, and Falana criticized President Jonathan.

Why should Nigerians be denied the right to peaceful protest?

Ukwu said: “In 2014, prominent figures like Mr. Tinubu, Pastor Bakare, Pastor Adeboye, and Prof. Soyinka, etc, exercised their right to dissent, including symbolic acts that criticized the government.

“Why then should Nigerians be denied the right to peaceful protest today?

“NADECO USA therefore considers it an irony of a circumstance and hypocrisy of the highest order for Tinubu to run all over the place to attempt to intimidate the Nigerian people who are genuinely desirous of defending their right to good governance.

“Tinubu wants to turn around and destroy the very process that he has always used to be heard and to gain power.

“Protests are a major cornerstone of democracy and democratic governance.

“Throughout history, protests have ignited positive and powerful social and political movements that expose injustice, corruption, and bad governance in the system.

“Protests are a way to demand accountability.

“It is disingenuous for the government to criminalize protests by targeting its organizers.

“NADECO USA stands resolutely for democracy, accountability, the rule of law, and good governance.

“Holding the government accountable is pivotal to democracy, and protest is a democratic right that must be upheld.

“We call upon the international community to monitor this planned peaceful protest closely, ensuring the safety of every Nigerian participant.”

It urged the youths to remain steadfast, courageous, and committed to peace.

The organization also called on the police, the army, and other security forces to ensure the safety of the protesters.

They emphasized that, according to Section 83(4) of the Police Act, protesters have the right to protection during demonstrations.

NADECO USA cautioned President Tinubu against testing the resolve of the Nigerian people.

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