As the representative for several detained #EndBadGovernance protesters, human rights activist Inibehe Effiong has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the planned protests on October 1 will proceed, despite state-sponsored intimidation and mass arrests.
Effiong, who has been outspoken against the criminalization of peaceful protests under the Tinubu administration, condemned the ongoing detention of protesters, asserting that it constitutes a violation of constitutional rights. In an interview, he emphasized that Nigerians possess an unalienable right to protest, arguing that the government’s attempts to suppress this right through arrests and charges—some based on accusations of “treason”—are unjust.
He accused the government of using fear tactics to distract from the country’s deteriorating socio-economic conditions, which have left many Nigerians disillusioned and aggrieved.
“People have the right to protest every day if necessary,” Effiong stated. “This is our country, not Tinubu’s or the APC’s. We will continue to defend citizens’ rights to peacefully assemble and express their grievances.” Despite reports of low turnout due to fears of arrest, Effiong encouraged Nigerians to stand firm and resist intimidation.
He described the charges against the detained protesters as baseless and criticized the government for what he termed its authoritarian approach to governance.
Effiong further explained that multiple legal actions are being pursued to secure the release of the protesters. Having faced human rights violations and detention himself, he noted that the administration’s actions indicate a lack of democratic values.
He pointed out that if the government were truly democratic, it would not be suppressing peaceful protests or silencing dissent through arrests.
“We will not negotiate their right to protest,” Effiong declared, insisting that all detainees must be released without conditions. “There is no meeting point on this matter except the full release of all detainees.” He also expressed confidence that the October 1 protests will attract significant participation, dismissing concerns that Nigerians would not sustain the movement.
He emphasized that the poor economic conditions and the government’s alleged mismanagement of the nation have left the people with no other option but to demand change.
As the protests approach, Effiong and his colleagues are working closely with law enforcement agencies, including notifying the Inspector General of Police, to protect the rights of those participating in the demonstrations.
