NHRC Warns of Danger of Censorship of CSOs

NHRC Warns of Danger of Censorship of CSOs

By: Michael Mike

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) yesterday warned of the dangers of censoring the operation of civil society organisations (CSOs) in Nigeria, insisting that it amounts to violation of fundamental human rights.

The chairperson of the governing Board of NHRC, Dr. Salamatu Suileman gave the warning at a civil-society forum on Human Rights in Nigeria held in Abuja.

She stated that an attempt at shrinking the civil society space would amount to closing the voices of many which could be tantamount to tenants of democracy, stressing that doing that in a democratic setting would negate the principle of democracy.

Suleiman also emphasized the need for variance voices in a democratic setting, insisting that this enriches compliance with international best practices.

She said: “We have witnessed a global trend of shrinking civic spaces. Laws and policies restricting NGO activities, censorship and silencing dissent have become alarmingly prevalent,

“Nigeria is a vibrant and diverse nation, we should always remind ourselves of our unique challenges and opportunities. With its rich history and complex social landscape, our country has seen both the flourishing and the constraining of civic spaces,”she said.

“We must work together – government, civil society, media, and citizens – to create an environment where civic engagement is tolerated and actively encouraged and celebrated,”added the chairperson of the NHRC.

In a remark, Executive Director of Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare and Action (PRAWA), Dr. Uju Agomoh also held that any attempt to shrink the civil society space may have negative consequences on democracy.

According to her, it is significant that all voices are heard in national discourse to avert an uprising of such voices.

NHRC Warns of Danger of Censorship of CSOs