The Movement for the Transformation of Nigeria (MOTiON) has issued a strong condemnation of the Nigerian government’s detention of 76 protesters, including 32 minors, calling it an assault on democratic freedoms.
MOTiON is demanding the immediate and unconditional release of the detainees, who face charges of terrorism, attempted mutiny, and treason. These charges, the group argues, are an unjustified attempt to criminalize peaceful dissent.
In a statement released on Monday, MOTiON decried what it described as the government’s “dangerous alignment” with international entities like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, claiming that their influence has fueled repressive actions against citizens.
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The group criticized the high bail amounts of N10 million for protesters, claiming it was an attempt to stifle public expression by making it financially prohibitive.
The protests, sparked by economic hardship, high inflation, and a rising cost of living, are symptomatic of deep-rooted governance issues, MOTiON says.
“The government’s response is only compounding the poverty and frustration felt by ordinary Nigerians,” the group added, noting that widespread poverty affects over 65% of the population, with millions of children unable to access basic needs.
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MOTiON demands include immediate and unconditional release of all detained protesters; an end to the criminalization of peaceful protest; and a halt to government harassment of citizens exercising their constitutional rights.
The group has warned that if these demands are ignored, they will mobilize Nigerians for a nationwide campaign against government repression, asserting that “We are prepared to confront state repression head-on, standing firm for a just and democratic society.”