Nigeria, like many other countries, has experienced its fair share of struggles and conflicts. However, none have been as disastrous as the illegal detention of the 60+ brothers of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria. This sad incident occurred four years ago, on the 20th of Dhul Qa'adah, and to date, those detained are yet to be released.
This grave injustice arose when the members of the Islamic Movement were protesting for the release of their leader, Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky (H). The Nigerian forces unfairly responded with force by opening fire on the peaceful protesters. This act of violence was, unfortunately, fatal, and the protest resulted in the loss of 16 lives and severe injuries to many others. Additionally, many who survived the attack were detained arbitrarily.
This day marks an important anniversary for the Islamic Movement, as it is a reminder of the struggles they've had to face to protect their rights and gain the freedom they deserved. It highlights the ongoing human rights violations in Nigeria and the need for the authorities in the country to uphold the people's rights.
The detention of the over 60 Islamic Movement members is a clear violation of their rights to lawful assembly and speech. The Nigerian authorities have allowed them to suffer for four long years without a fair trial, adequate access to medical care, and other essential services. Even the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, of which Nigeria is a signatory, declares that everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association.
It is critical to note that the illegal detention of the Islamic Movement members is just one example of the systematic violation of human rights in Nigeria. The government has continuously targeted individuals and groups that it deems a threat to the state and its interests. This act goes against their obligation under international law to protect human rights and freedom for all individuals regardless of their religious, political, and social affiliations.
Furthermore, the illegal detention of the members of the Islamic Movement violates the rule of law. The government has the responsibility to adhere to its constitutional obligations and respect the human rights and dignity of its citizens. However, by arbitrarily detaining individuals, it has come out as a lawless government that does not respect the rights and freedoms of its people.
The situation in Nigeria calls for immediate action by both the government and the international community to address the human rights violations and bring those responsible to book. The government should release all the detained members of the Islamic Movement and provide them with medical care, monitored and overseen by the International Red Cross Society. The government should also conduct an independent investigation into the events that led to the death of the 16 peaceful protesters, to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Moreover, it's high time for countries that believe in the rule of law and respect for fundamental human rights to take action. These countries should exert pressure on Nigeria to enforce human rights laws and implement measures that prevent further human rights violations from happening in the future.
The illegal detention of the over 60 members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria is a violation of fundamental human rights that cannot go unnoticed. The situation highlights the need for more voices to speak out against such blatant human rights abuses by the Nigerian government. The government should respect the right to peaceful assembly and association, release the detained members, and ensure their proper medical attention. The international community should step up and urge the Nigerian government to respect human rights and implement measures that prevent further human rights violations in the future. It is only by taking decisive action that we can ensure that such injustices do not occur again.