Amnesty International has called on the Federal Government to stop intimidating individuals and groups who criticise the current administration.
In a statement on its X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, the human rights organisation said, “The Nigerian authorities must stop responding with violence and threats to individuals and groups who express dissenting opinions — in utter disregard for the Nigerian Constitution and international law. Holding and voicing dissenting views is not a crime.”
Amnesty International also condemned the alleged threats and intimidation faced by Ushie Uguamaye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving in Lagos State.
The group said the corps member was being pressured by NYSC officials after posting a viral TikTok video criticising President Bola Tinubu’s government over the economic hardship in the country.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns threats and intimidation directed at a lady who posted a TikTok video lamenting the current escalating economic hardship,” the statement read.
“The lady alleged that NYSC officials threatened her for refusing to delete the video. It is perfectly within her right to express discontent peacefully.”
The organisation urged the government to focus on solving economic challenges instead of suppressing free speech.
“Instead of threatening her for her opinions on rampant inflation, the authorities should prioritise addressing the country’s economic woes.”
It also highlighted the struggles of many Nigerians, saying, “Millions of people in Nigeria are facing extreme poverty. So far, the authorities have failed to put in place effective mitigation measures, leaving millions without hope of getting out of economic challenges and enjoying their human rights.”
Uguamaye revealed that after her video went viral, she received threats from people claiming to be NYSC officials, pressuring her to delete it.
She also expressed fears for her safety, stating that her personal details had been leaked, and she was being forced to report to the NYSC office.
Amnesty International has now urged the authorities to respect the rights of citizens to express their opinions without fear of intimidation.
