OCCUPYLEKKITOLLGATE: Is Nigeria A Democratic or An Autocratic Country?

I heard that some concerned Nigerians and Human Rights Activists planned to storm the Lekki Tollgate today, regards to the October 10 2020 Lekki Tollgate Massacre.

Unfortunately, the Lagos State Police have prohibited the planned gathering from taking place and have warned that they will arrest any activists that assemble at the toll gate. According to report, over 500 police men were deployed to occupy the Toll gate.

MY THOUGHTS:

Firstly, Lagos state or the federal government of Nigeria, has no right to stop the proposed #OccupyLekkiTollgate protest today, arrest or harm any protester(s).

A protest is a public expression of objection, disapproval or dissent towards an idea or action. It is a civil right of the citizens of a democratic nation. As such, Nigerian youth have the right to carry out a peaceful demonstration against the Reopening of Lekki Tollgate.

On the night of 20 October 2020, at about 6:50 p.m, members of the Nigerian Army opened fire on peaceful End SARS protesters at the Lekki toll gate in Lagos State, Nigeria. According to Amnesty International, at least 12 protesters were killed during the shooting, however it is said the number is definitely higher.

On Saturday 6 February 2021, the Judicial Panel of Inquiry set up by the Lagos State government to investigate the October 2020 Lekki shooting incident approved the reopening of the Lekki Tollgate when justice is yet to be served.