By ABDULKABIR MUHAMMED

A human rights and pro-democracy organisation, the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD), has condemned the recent ban on peaceful protests in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, describing it as a violation of citizens’ constitutional rights.

In a statement issued on Sunday, October 19, 2025, and signed by the group’s leadership, FENRAD criticised the Federal Government and the N’geria Police Force for what it termed “sweeping restrictions” on lawful gatherings following a Federal High Court ruling in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 –Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others.

The Police had reportedly placed a ban on demonstrations around major national landmarks including the National Assembly, Aso Rock Villa, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way, citing security concerns.

While acknowledging the importance of maintaining public order, FENRAD warned that such measures could erode constitutionally guaranteed freedoms, particularly the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression as contained in Sections 39 and 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“The decision to criminalise peaceful gatherings, especially those advocating for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, sets a disturbing precedent and raises questions about the government’s tolerance for dissent,” the group stated.

FENRAD further stressed that court orders must not be weaponised to suppress legitimate civil expression, noting that judicial pronouncements affecting fundamental rights should be open to higher judicial scrutiny.

It also described the protest ban as “the militarisation of civic space” and insisted that security concerns must never override human rights, adding that peaceful protest is not synonymous with violence.

“The right to assemble and protest is non-negotiable in a democratic society,” the statement continued. “Governments should engage with citizens and address grievances through dialogue, not repression.”

The organisation therefore called on the Federal Government, the Police and other security agencies to review what it termed an unconstitutional position and to allow Nigerians to exercise their democratic rights freely within the limits of the law.

FENRAD also appealed to civil society organisations, the legal community, the international community, and all lovers of democracy to stand firm in defence of civil liberties in Nigeria.

“Democracy must not become a mere slogan,” the group concluded. “It should be evident in how authorities respond to dissent and respect for human rights.”