HURIWA Slams NYSC, Condemns ‘Harassment’ Of Lagos Corper In Hardship Video

Pro-democracy Advocacy Group, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has condemned what it says is intimidation and harassment of a corps member, Raye, who criticised President Bola Tinubu over his poor handling of the economy.

The corper had, in a viral video, expressed frustration over Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions, lamenting the high inflation and economic hardship.

Raye had also criticised the President by describing him as a “terrible leader” while questioning the government’s efforts to alleviate the hardship faced by the citizens.

HURIWA affirms that every citizen has the right to express their opinions and concerns about governmental performance without fear of intimidation or retribution, just as the Rights group said the provisions of fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression, encapsulated in chapter 4 of the Nigerian constitution higher and far more superior than the NYSC bylaw.

The group says the extant NYSC bylaw does not negate the constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of citizens including youth corpers.

The group kicks against any attempt to harass, intimidate or threaten the corper just as it stated that the loyalty of corpers is to the federal Republic of Nigeria and not to any specific hopder of the office of the President of Nigeria.

In accordance with Section 39(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, it is stipulated that “every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference.”

HURIWA argues that this fundamental right is the cornerstone of Nigerian democracy, allowing citizens to hold their leaders accountable and advocate for positive change.

HURIWA says it is disturbed by reports that the NYSC Corper faced threats from officials after expressing valid concerns about the economic hardships affecting corpers and many Nigerians.

The group says such actions not only contradict the democratic principles upon which Nigeria is built but also create an atmosphere of fear that prevents open dialogue and constructive criticism.

The rising costs of living, inflation, and issues surrounding government accountability are pressing matters that deserve attention, the group says, noting that “it is essential for our leaders to engage with citizens, listening to their grievances and taking meaningful steps to address them.

“Silencing dissent will not resolve the challenges faced by average Nigerians; rather, it deepens the divide between the government and the people.”

The group urges the NYSC leadership to “reconsider any measures taken against this brave individual and to encourage a culture of free speech among all Corp members.

“It is crucial for our democracy that young voices, especially those of future leaders, are not stifled but rather nurtured and empowered to contribute to national discourse.”

HURIWA also calls on the Nigerian government to reaffirm its commitment to protect the rights of citizens, allowing them to speak freely about their experiences and challenges.

“The resilience of our democracy depends on the active participation of its citizens and their ability to address injustices openly.

“We stand in solidarity with this NYSC corper and all Nigerians who dare to speak truth to power,” HURIWA added.

HURIWA Slams NYSC, Condemns ‘Harassment’ Of Lagos Corper In Hardship Video is first published on The Whistler Newspaper