Senate Condemns Police Brutality Against Anti-Buhari Protesters
Senate Reacts to the Clash Between Police and Protesters
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, released a statement condemning the actions of security officers who attacked peaceful protesters in Abuja. Although the Senate did not agree with the theme of the protest, which demanded that President Muhammadu Buhari end his medical vacation or resign, it strongly opposed the violation of the protesters’ fundamental human rights.
Background of the Protest
For three straight days, a coalition of Civil Society and pro-democracy groups under the #OurMumuDonDo movement held peaceful demonstrations in Abuja. They called on President Buhari to return to office or step down after spending more than 90 days in London for medical treatment. However, on the second day, security agents assaulted some protesters and journalists covering the event.
Senate Condemns Police Action
In its response, the Senate criticized the Nigeria Police for using force to disperse citizens who were exercising their constitutional rights. Abdullahi stated that although the Senate opposed the aim of the protest, it recognized that the protesters acted peacefully and did not disturb public order.
He explained that the police must review their rules of engagement to align with democratic standards. According to him, the police are meant to protect citizens’ rights, not violate them. He added that if officers suspect that hoodlums want to hijack a protest, they must arrest the culprits rather than brutalize peaceful demonstrators.
Senate Calls for Calm and Unity
The Senate also urged the organizers of the protest to join other Nigerians in praying for President Buhari’s recovery. Abdullahi reminded citizens that anyone can fall sick and require extended medical care. He noted that the President followed constitutional procedures before leaving for treatment, and his absence had not stopped any arm of government from performing its duties.
