It’s crucial to understand the extent of your rights during the protest.
Protesting is a fundamental human right recognized worldwide and enshrined in the Nigerian 1999 Constitution (Section 40). The premise of democracy allows us to choose our representatives in government and, in turn, empowers citizens to express grievances and hold those in power accountable. However, the exercise of this right must be balanced against the rights of others to go about their daily lives, as not everyone shares the same needs at the same time. Therefore, protesters must also maintain public order and safety.
As you prepare to protest tomorrow, keep the following points in mind:
1. Foster a Peaceful Environment:Ensure a calm and serene atmosphere, avoiding any form of violence or aggression.
2. Collaborate with Law Enforcement: Comply with police instructions and work together to maintain a safe and orderly protest.
3. Encourage Non-Violent Behavior: Promote peaceful conduct among participants, discouraging any actions that could lead to conflict or violence.
4. Stay Vigilant: Continuously monitor your surroundings, identify potential hotspots, and adjust plans to prevent escalation.
5. Peaceful Dispersal After the Protest: Ensure a calm and orderly dispersal of participants to prevent any incidents or confrontations.
It is essential to understand the legal implications if the protest goes beyond the bounds discussed above. Severe consequences can arise, particularly if the protest leads to
1. loss of life,
2. harm to participants,
3. security personnel, or bystanders,
4. destruction of public or private property,
5. disruption of public order and economic activities, or exacerbation of social and political tensions.
You could face charges on the following grounds:
1. Rioting (Section 69 of the Criminal Code Act): Imprisonment for up to 3 years or a fine.
2. Unlawful Assembly (Section 70): Imprisonment for up to 1 year or a fine.
3. Failure to Disperse (Section 71): Imprisonment for up to 2 years or a fine.
4. Terrorism (Terrorism Prevention Act 2011): Imprisonment for up to 20 years for engaging in terrorist activities, including violent protests.
5. Public Order Act 1979: Fines and imprisonment for violating public order regulations.
Please note that this is not intended to discourage or encourage participation in the protest but rather to educate and empower everyone to exercise their rights responsibly and within the confines of the law.
In conclusion, while protests are a fundamental right, resorting to violence can have severe legal consequences. It is essential to exercise this right responsibly and within the legal framework.
I understand that times are tough and people are struggling, but trust me, you don’t want to spend even a day in detention or face a short jail term.
