ECOWAS Bemoans Reports Of Violence In The Ongoing EndBadGovernance Protests In Nigeria
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The Economic Community Of West African States, ECOWAS Commission says it has been closely monitoring the ongoing protests against bad governance by citizens of Nigeria, and deeply regrets reports of violence in the course of the protests
A statement issued by the ECOWAS Directorate of Communication decried the unfortunate death of some protesters as well as alleged looting and destruction of public and private properties.
The statement notes the Commission extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and sympathizes with the Government and people of Nigeria over the losses.
It said, 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 commended the State of the Nation address of 4th August 2024 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and urged 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