Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), has warned against any clampdown on peaceful rallies scheduled to commemorate Nigeria’s Democracy Day, urging the Nigerian government to instead embrace true democracy.
CAPPA’s statement came in response to a series of ominous announcements made by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), who have threatened to prevent planned protests by Nigerians, labour unions, and a coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs).
In a press release issued by CAPPA’s Media Officer, Robert Egbe, the organization echoed the need for a fundamental reevaluation and reinforcement of democracy in Nigeria, emphasizing the need to prioritize citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression.
According to the organisation, “The diversity of opinions and active participation of citizens in political processes enrich democracy and promote nation-building.”
The organisation’s Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi, said, “indeed, we have come a long way as a people on a journey, and this day, as always, holds major significance in our history. It is a timely reminder of the resilience and bravery we embody even in the face of challenges that threaten to swallow us.”
Olufemi further stated that “we must continue to uphold the sanctity of our nationhood and jealously defend if from the perils that threaten its wholesomeness.”
In addition, CAPPA urged government officials and law enforcement agencies to uphold their constitutional obligation to safeguard citizens’ freedoms of peaceful assembly and expression. The non-governmental organization, drawing on the values of democracy, demanded a comprehensive rethinking and strengthening of Nigeria’s democracy, in order to drive national development and build a better, more inclusive future for Nigerians.
“Yet the suppression of press freedoms, arbitrary arrests and detention of journalists, and vocal citizens and critics have become increasingly reoccurring instances in the country and disappointing indices that undermine the people’s power to have an equal voice in their government.” the organization further stated.
CAPPA emphasized that the persistent disregard for democratic principles even after 25 years of unbroken democracy has continued to limit citizens’ participation in decision-making processes and stifle meaningful progress.
CAPPA thereafter encouraged authorities to adopt transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law, rejecting the criminalization of open government.