Former presidential candidate and former National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Peter Ameh, has called for the immediate release of all prisoners of conscience currently detained by the government, News About Nigeria reports.
In a statement released on Monday, Ameh expressed alarm over the recent arrests and detentions of protesters and journalists in Nigeria, describing these actions as a serious threat to democratic principles and fundamental human rights, particularly the freedoms of speech and assembly.
Ameh criticised the government’s crackdown on dissent, stating, “These arrests are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of repression, all while bandits and kidnappers are having a field day.”
He stressed that in a democratic society, citizens should be free to express their opinions and participate in peaceful protests without fear of intimidation or arrest.
Ameh also added that journalists play a crucial role in holding those in power accountable, arguing that they should be able to report on events without harassment or detention.
“Clamping down on journalists and political dissent can have serious negative consequences for democracy in Nigeria,” Ameh warned.
He outlined several potential dangers, including the undermining of free speech, the fostering of corruption, the erosion of public trust, and the deepening of societal divisions.
“Journalists play a crucial role in holding those in power accountable. When they’re suppressed, corruption and abuse of power can flourish and such acts threaten transparency. Journalists help shed light on important issues. Without them, citizens may be left in the dark about crucial matters affecting their lives.
“This administration encourages self-censorship: When journalists face repercussions, others may self-censor, further limiting the free flow of information,” he said.
Ameh also stressed that suppressing journalists could hinder informed decision-making by the public and set a dangerous precedent that normalises authoritarian behaviour.
Ameh’s statement comes in the wake of recent arrests, including that of journalist Bristol Isaac, known as PIDOMNIGERIA, who remains in detention, and Adejuwon Soyinka, who was detained at the airport on Sunday, later released with his international passport confiscated.
According to reports, PIDOMNIGERIA is expected to be charged in court by the Nigerian Police.
