Rights Group Seeks Prosecution of Police Officers, Vigilantes over Human Rights Abuses

By Praise Chinecherem

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has decried persistent abuses of free speech and civic expression, including arbitrary arrests, intimidation, harassment and torture of journalists, activists, students, and citizens by state and non-state actors.

The group also lamented Police and security high-handedness, including unlawful detention in non-designated facilities such as local government secretariats and vigilante offices.

In a communique issued by the group after its one-day dialogue session demanded immediate end to such acts, calling on security personnel to ensure prosecution of officers and vigilante operatives found guilty of abuses.

The dialogue held in Awka, Anambra state themed: “Voices Unchained – A Journey Through Civic Space in Southeast Nigeria.” was supported by the Fund for Global Human Rights through the Action Group on Free Civic Space.

The group also advocated speedy trials, bail enforcement, and pro bono legal aid to protect vulnerable citizens.

It urged the National Assembly to review the Cybercrimes Act and other laws used to shrink civic space.

The group expressed its readiness to partner with traditional, religious, and community leaders to end mob justice and promote civic education.

“We demand the restoration of democratic student unionism and create safe spaces for youth voices in governance and peace-building.

“We encourage journalists to resist censorship, report civic violations fearlessly, and strengthen solidarity against attacks.

“We’ll continue to build stronger regional alliances to monitor, document, and respond to civic space violations.

“We appeal to the global community to support local defenders with resources, visibility, and diplomatic pressure on government to respect civic freedoms,” the group stated.

Among recommendations at the dialogue included immediate halt of criminalisation of dissent by federal and state governments and adoption of policies that expand rather than shrink civic freedoms.

“Security agencies should adopt rights-based policing, respect court orders, and undergo regular human rights training.

“Traditional and Religious Leaders should use their influence to discourage mob violence and promote peaceful engagement.

“The judiciary assert its independence and prioritise justice in rights-related cases.

“Civil society and media sustain civic education campaigns and amplify the voices of victims of violations.”

Participants reaffirmed that civic space is not a privilege but a fundamental constitutional right and a cornerstone of democracy.

They also reaffirmed that rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and association were non-negotiable and must be upheld by all authorities.

They resolved to work together to “unchain voices” in the Southeast and transform the outcomes of the dialogue into concrete advocacy and action.