The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has condemned the reported blockade of the venue of the ‘Tinubu-Must-Go’ event in Kano by armed police officers.
In a statement, the organisation said the incident raised concerns about the protection of fundamental human rights and the respect for democratic principles in Nigeria.
CITAD said citizens had constitutionally guaranteed rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of association and freedom of expression, regardless of their political affiliations or opinions about those in power.
It maintained that the responsibility of the police was to protect citizens, maintain public order and facilitate peaceful gatherings rather than intimidate or obstruct lawful activities.
The organisation called on the Inspector-General of Police, the National Security Adviser, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other relevant authorities to ensure that security agencies respect constitutional rights.
It also urged the authorities to investigate the incident, establish accountability where violations were found and issue clear directives against the arbitrary obstruction of peaceful political activities.
CITAD warned that repeated restrictions on opposition voices and peaceful protesters could undermine public confidence in democratic institutions and shrink civic space ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It stressed that peaceful dissent was not a crime and urged the government and security agencies to uphold the rule of law and protect citizens’ fundamental rights irrespective of their political views.