DO YOU KNOW SERIES PT. 1
Do you know that there exists the right to protest? However, in this there lies a thin line between this right and a riot and the legal consequences attached therein.
From the back-and-forth and final agreement on the increment of the minimum wage to cushion the current economy crisis to the planned hardship and #badgovernance protest against severe hunger, bad governance, and prevailing hardship by organised groups, we see that there is a need to address this thin line between a lawful protest and a riot.
What does a protest mean?
The act of protesting is a fundamental human right recognised globally as a means for citizens to express their views, demand changes, and hold the government accountable. In Nigeria, the right to protest is enshrined and protected under Section 40 of the Nigerian constitution, which guarantees the freedom of assembly and association. Typically, a protest involves a peaceful physical gathering where individuals express their views. However, when such physical gatherings escalate into violence, destruction of property, or public disorder, they can be classified as riots. While protests are peaceful and lawful, riots are considered criminal acts under Nigerian law. By this, a person cannot be regarded to have been deprived of his right to life if he dies as a result of force used by legal authorities for the purpose of suppressing the riot.
A protest is a voice of public opinion to air and express specific concerns and grievances on pertinent circumstances or issues as it relates to the citizenry. Nevertheless, the intention, mode, and the government's response to a planned protest oftentimes determines whether it stays peaceful or escalates into a full-blown riot.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane to the events of the EndSARS protest in 2020, where 20th October remains itched in everyone’s mind. The protest officially began on 8th October with a quest advocating the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a unit within the Nigerian Police Force, following unlawful arrests, detention, humiliation, police brutality, and abuse of authority by the unit. The movement was predominantly led by young Nigerians and comprised demonstrations across various major cities in the country. However, overtaken control by unnamed persons who instituted violence across and the government’s response through the Nigerian Army in its open fire at Lekki Toll gate marred an initially peaceful protest to one accounting for the loss of several vibrant lives and massive destruction of properties, both public and private. Almost four years on, it is still ingrained fresh in our memories as we remember and honour the lives lost and the critical cause advanced.
In conclusion, understanding the right to protest and its legal boundaries is crucial for both Nigerian citizens and authorities alike. While the right to assemble and express dissent is protected constitutionally, maintaining peace and order during such activities remains of utmost importance to avoid the resultant consequence associated with riots that may arise.
And now you know. I trust that you enjoyed this edition. Please give a clap or many claps and kindly share with others as well. Let’s spread this knowledge, guys.
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http://gdpd.xyz/eloho_03
Bye and see you in the next edition.
