The National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, has frowned at the molestation metted to journalists by the police officers at Eagle Square during the #EndBadGovernance protest.
A statement by the executive secretary of the commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, and signed by Obinna Nwakonye,
Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, said the act is a clear violation of their fundamental human rights and a blatant attempt to suppress the freedom of press.
He stressed that journalists have the constitutional right to carry out their duties without fear of intimidation, harassment, or molestation.
He lamented that those molested did not deserve the treatment that was meted to them.
According to him, the police’s actions undermine the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
“We call on the Nigerian Police to respect the rights of journalists and protesters, and to ensure that their actions align with international human rights standards,” he said.
He called on the Inspector General of Police to investigate the incident and take necessary steps to hold perpetrators accountable and notify NHRC on the action within 10 days.
“We reiterate our commitment to protecting human rights and promoting a culture of respect for the rule of law in Nigeria, ” he added.