The United States chapter of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) has urged the international community to closely monitor the upcoming nationwide protest against economic hardship in Nigeria, scheduled for August 1. The call was made by NADECO USA’s President, Dr. Lloyd Ukwu, during a news briefing in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, on Wednesday.
Dr. Ukwu emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of all Nigerian citizens participating in the protest. He condemned the government’s attempt to criminalize protests by targeting organizers, stating that using force or intimidation to quell the protest would violate democratic principles and threaten fundamental rights.
NADECO USA expressed support for the planned peaceful protest, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the law. Dr. Ukwu highlighted that freedom of expression is a fundamental human right, as enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and should be respected regardless of ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, or social status.
The call for international monitoring comes as Nigerians prepare to take to the streets to demand action from the government to address economic hardship. NADECO USA’s intervention aims to ensure a peaceful and safe environment for protesters to exercise their rights.
