A civil society organisation has warned Nigeria’s federal government against using security agencies to intimidate or harass opposition figures, saying such actions could undermine democracy and the rule of law.
The group, in a statement on Monday, said recent actions by security agencies have raised concerns about political interference and selective enforcement of the law. It urged authorities to ensure that all investigations and arrests are carried out transparently and without political bias.
According to the organisation, security institutions are meant to protect citizens and uphold the constitution, not to be deployed as tools for settling political scores. It cautioned that the misuse of state power against opposition leaders could erode public trust and fuel political tension ahead of future elections.
The CSO called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to reaffirm its commitment to democratic principles by guaranteeing due process, respecting fundamental rights and allowing political dissent to thrive.
Government officials have repeatedly denied allegations of using security agencies for political purposes, insisting that all actions taken by law enforcement bodies are based on intelligence and in line with the law.
Nigeria has experienced repeated accusations of political intimidation in the past, particularly during periods of heightened political competition. Rights groups say safeguarding the neutrality of security agencies is critical to sustaining the country’s democratic gains since the return to civilian rule in 1999.
