Amnesty International has strongly condemned the recent harassment of prominent Nigerian human rights lawyer, Chidi Odinkalu, by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. The organization has described the actions as a direct attack on the rule of law and the fundamental freedoms of expression and association in Nigeria.
Odinkalu, a well-known advocate for human rights and justice, was subjected to intimidation and harassment during a recent public event where he voiced his concerns about human rights abuses in Nigeria. According to eyewitness accounts and video footage, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, publicly confronted Odinkalu, accusing him of making inflammatory remarks and attempting to undermine the government.
Amnesty International has raised alarm over this incident, stressing that the Nigerian government has an obligation to protect the rights of individuals, particularly those who speak out against human rights violations. The organization has called on both the Nigerian government and the FCT Minister to respect the rights of human rights defenders and ensure that such behavior is not repeated in the future.
“This incident is a clear example of the increasing climate of hostility against human rights defenders in Nigeria,” said Seun Bakare, Amnesty International's Nigeria Campaigner. “Chidi Odinkalu, like all human rights defenders, has the right to speak out without fear of harassment or retaliation. The Nigerian government must take immediate action to protect individuals like Odinkalu who are working to hold those in power accountable.”
Amnesty International also urged the Nigerian government to launch a full investigation into the incident and take appropriate action against any officials found responsible for the unlawful harassment of Odinkalu.
Human rights defenders in Nigeria have faced increasing pressure in recent years, with many being subjected to threats, arrests, and unlawful detention. This most recent incident involving Odinkalu is seen by many as part of a worrying trend of growing repression of dissenting voices in the country.