NHRC: ‘Freedom of Expression is Fundamental to Democracy’ — Urges Law Enforcement to End Harassment of Rights Advocates
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for an immediate cessation of arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and harassment of journalists, civil society activists, and human rights defenders by law enforcement agencies.
This position was articulated in the Commission’s March human rights report, which underscores the critical importance of upholding the right to freedom of expression. The NHRC emphasized that limitations to this right must be lawful, necessary, and proportionate, particularly when invoked on grounds of national security or public order.
In the advisory, signed by the Executive Secretary, Mr Tony Ojukwu (SAN), the Commission decried the growing misuse of the Cybercrime Act as a tool for suppressing dissent. It warned that the arbitrary arrest or intimidation of individuals for expressing divergent views constitutes a grave violation of their rights. Mr Ojukwu further stressed the duty of both the judiciary and the police to safeguard due process and ensure fair hearings, especially in cases involving charges under the Cybercrime Act. He cautioned against its use as a pretext for unlawful detention.
The NHRC reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring these developments and defending the rights of citizens against encroachments on their freedom of expression. It has also reiterated the urgent need for accountability among law enforcement officers who infringe upon fundamental rights.
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