Concerns over civic space and democratic freedoms have emerged following allegations that operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) threatened the coordinator of the “Take It Back” Movement in Edo State ahead of the planned June 12 nationwide protest.
According to reports, the activist alleged that security operatives issued warnings against participating in or organising activities connected to the Democracy Day demonstration and threatened possible arrest if the planned protest proceeds.
The June 12 protest is being organised by a coalition of civil society organisations, activists, youth groups, labour advocates, and pro-democracy campaigners to draw attention to worsening insecurity, economic hardship, hunger, and the rising cost of living across the country.
Rights advocates have expressed concern over the reported development, arguing that peaceful protest, freedom of expression, and freedom of assembly are rights guaranteed under Nigeria’s Constitution.
The allegations come amid heightened mobilisation for June 12 activities in several states, where organisers have insisted that the demonstrations will remain peaceful and focused on social and economic issues affecting ordinary Nigerians.
At the time of reporting, the DSS had not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the report.
Observers note that the incident has renewed debate about the protection of civic freedoms and the relationship between security agencies and citizens exercising their democratic rights.
