Afenifere demands immediate release of hunger protesters jailed by Tinubu govt
The Yoruba sociopolitical organization Afenifere has publicly condemned the Nigerian government’s actions regarding the arrest and jailing of individuals protesting economic hardships.
This condemnation comes in light of recent events where a group of protesters, specifically those involved in the #EndBadGovernance movement, were charged with treason for their demonstrations against the government’s economic policies.
The condemnation was contained in a statement by the group loyal to Pa Ayo Adebanjo and signed by HRM Oba Oladipo Olaitan (Afenifere Deputy Leader) and Prince Justice Faloye (National Publicity Secretary).
Ten protesters who were charged for treason and attempting to destabilize the country were granted N100 million bail by an Abuja Federal High Court on Wednesday, and Afenifere believes the government was being high-handed.
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“The government can’t jail Nigerians feeling the pain and protesting its debilitating economic policies and fuel shortages due to a privatized NNPC that has privatized its retail wing to those monopolizing petrol stations, where huge queues accumulate to buy slightly cheaper petrol at newly acquired NNPC stations while other petrol stations either don’t have fuel or have to sell at exorbitant prices.”
Afenifere emphasizes that citizens have an inalienable right to protest, particularly when they are facing severe economic challenges. The organization argues that jailing protesters undermines democratic principles and civil rights.
The group asserts that the current administration is guilty of “economic treason” due to its mismanagement of the economy. They highlight issues such as fuel shortages, inflation, and high import bills as contributing factors to the widespread dissatisfaction among citizens.
Afenifere draws parallels between the current situation and past political struggles in Nigeria, reminding President Tinubu that he himself benefited from foreign support during his opposition against former President Goodluck Jonathan. They argue that it is hypocritical for him to now label unarmed protesters as treasonous.
The organization demands the immediate and unconditional release of those jailed for participating in protests against economic hardship, arguing that these individuals are merely exercising their rights and expressing legitimate grievances.
Afenifere warns that labeling peaceful protests as treasonous could lead Nigeria down a path toward authoritarianism or fascism, reminiscent of past regimes known for suppressing dissent.
The group suggests that many of the economic issues could have been addressed swiftly by implementing policies aimed at reducing import bills related to fuel and other essential goods within a short time frame.
They criticize government actions such as removing subsidies on petrol without ensuring local refineries were operational, which they believe has exacerbated economic difficulties for ordinary Nigerians.
There is also mention of international condemnation regarding the government’s approach to handling protests, indicating a broader concern about human rights practices under Tinubu’s administration.
Afenifere firmly believes that it is unjust and counterproductive for the government to imprison individuals who are protesting against genuine hardships faced by millions in Nigeria due to poor governance and economic policies.
