Yemi Obafemi
The Economic Community of West African States Commission has sympathized with the families of those who loss their lives during #EndbadgovernanceinNigeria protest.
The commission also urged protesters to embrace dialogue as the President earlier said in his nation broadcast on Sunday in order to adress their demands and ensure peace and security in the country.
ECOWAS disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
The Commission acknowledged the right of the citizens to peaceful protest.
The statement read in part: “The ECOWAS Commission has been closely monitoring the ongoing protests by citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and deeply regrets reports of violence in the course of the protests and the unfortunate death of some protesters as well as alleged looting and destruction of public and private properties.
“The commission extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and sympathizes with the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria over the losses.
“The ECOWAS Commission recognises the right of citizens to peaceful protests, as guaranteed by the 2001 ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.”
“The Commission welcomes the State of the Nation address of August 4, 2024 by President Bola Tinubu and urges the protesters and all stakeholders to heed the President’s call for inclusive dialogue for the resolution of all grievances and the preservation of peace and security in Nigeria and the ECOWAS region at large.”
