The Movement for the Transformation of Nigeria (MOTiON) has condemned the detention of 76 protesters, including 32 minors, calling it an “unconscionable display of state repression.” According to MOTiON, the detained individuals are facing exaggerated charges of terrorism, mutiny, and treason simply for exercising their constitutional right to protest against government mismanagement, rising hunger, and hardship.
MOTiON denounced these actions as an attack on Nigerian citizens’ fundamental rights under the amended 1999 Constitution. The group accused the Nigerian government of weaponizing state power in alignment with external financial interests, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, to silence dissent and enforce harsh economic policies. With bail set at punitive amounts of N10 million each, MOTiON claims the government is making a calculated attempt to criminalize protest and intimidate citizens.
At the heart of these protests are issues like runaway inflation, a soaring cost of living, and widespread poverty affecting over 65 percent of Nigerians. MOTiON argues that instead of addressing these systemic problems, the government has taken a heavy-handed approach, punishing citizens for seeking accountability and meaningful change.
MOTiON demands the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees, an end to the harassment of peaceful protesters, and respect for citizens’ constitutional rights. The group warns that if the government fails to comply, it will mobilize its members and millions of Nigerians nationwide to resist state repression.
Signed: Hauwa Mustapha, Convener, MOTiON
Editor’s Note:
MOTiON is a coalition of Nigerians from diverse democratic, labor, and civil society organizations advocating for social justice and human rights across the country.
