In a statement, Upah expressed outrage and contempt for Igweh’s actions, highlighting the excessive force used by the police. Armored tanks, assault dogs, and police personnel in battle gear were deployed to break up the peaceful demonstration, a move Upah describes as an affront to the 1999 constitution (as amended), ILO Conventions 87 and 98, and the African Charter on People and Human Rights, all of which guarantee freedom of association and speech.
“This behavior is a violation of the Supreme Court ruling that citizens do not need police permits or approval to peacefully protest. It insults the dignity of self-respecting and law-abiding citizens,” Upah stated.
