Civil society organisations have read with renewed concern the report by SaharaReporters detailing the actions of armed officers from the notorious SARS Abattoir unit in Abuja, led by CSP Ejike Emmanuel, who, on February 23, 2025, were dispatched to Enugu to apprehend 66-year-old activist Mr. Kindness Jonah.
Notably, these officers failed to report to the Enugu State CID or any local police formation, violating standard procedure for interstate police operations.
This alarming incident raises serious questions about the abuse of office, disregard for due process, and blatant human rights violations. It has come to our attention that Hon. Chinedu Ogah, the member of the House of Representatives for Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency from Ebonyi State, is implicated in using the Cybercrime Act as a tool of repression against Mr. Jonah.
This case is emblematic of a broader trend of the abuse and misuse of cybercrime laws, which have significant negative impacts on freedom of expression and civic space in Nigeria. The implications of such actions are profound and far-reaching:
- Restrictions on Freedom of Expression: The misuse of cybercrime laws fosters an environment of self-censorship, deterring individuals from expressing their opinions or critiquing the government due to fears of arrest or harassment.
- Silencing Dissenting Voices: Critics and opposition figures are increasingly targeted and imprisoned, undermining democratic discourse and the fundamental principles of democracy.
- Erosion of Civic Space: Activists face intimidation, leading to chilling effects on advocacy and resulting in a restricted environment for civic engagement.
- Impact on Democracy: These actions erode trust in democratic institutions, undermine the rule of law, and detract from the integrity of public debate.
- Stifling Critical Reporting: Journalists and media outlets encounter significant barriers, limiting their ability to report critically on government actions and thus affecting public awareness.
- Human Rights Violations: The misuse of cybercrime laws often leads to violations of key human rights, including expression, assembly, and association, allowing those abusing power to act with impunity.
CALLS TO ACTION
In light of these pressing concerns, we call for:
- Investigation into the Use of Police by Politicians: A thorough inquiry into the misuse of police resources by politicians to settle personal or political scores.
- Investigation into Police Procedure Deviations: An examination of the deviations from standard arrest procedures, ensuring adherence to lawful practices.
- Upholding the Rule of Law: The police must recommit to the rule of law and compliance with due process in all actions to restore public trust and uphold human rights.
We urge the relevant authorities to take immediate steps to address these issues and ensure accountability. Nigeria’s democratic integrity and the protection of human rights depend on the commitment to uphold justice and the rule of law.
