STAYING SAFE DURING A PROTEST

The right to protest is protected by International Laws. See Articles 18, 19 and 20 of the Universal Declaration of Human Right. Under section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution, every person is entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons. Section 45 permits these rights to be restricted in the interests of defence, public safety, public order, public morality, public health or to protect the rights or freedom of others. So, as long as you’re not causing any trouble, you’re doing well my dear.

Furthermore, the Court of Appeal upheld the right to protest in the case of IGP V. ANPP (2008) 12 WRN 65 that “certainly in a democracy, it is the right of citizens to conduct peaceful processions, rallies or demonstrations without seeking and obtaining permission from anybody. It is a right guaranteed by the 1999 constitution and any law that attempt to curtail such right is null and void and of no effect.

We already know that peaceful protest is a fundamental right in Nigeria and the world at large. I also understand that the actions of the Government have made you begin to think that the right to peaceful protest is not in our Constitution. Don’t mind them. That’s what they want to achieve - convince you that you’re wrong. In fact, this so-called government is a product of protest.

We are led by people who have their own manual for running the country, aside from what every normal person should know. On the first week of October 2020, Nigerian youths took to the streets to protest against police brutality and bad governance. What did the government do? They attacked and murdered them. With all the evidence available, they still deny it. 20th October, 2020 will never be forgotten. What did we get from Mr. President when he finally spoke? You already know. I don’t want to dwell on that sad tragedy; the story can make a novel.

Now, I do not want to bore you with too much talk. I just want to reassure you that protesting peacefully is not a crime, especially if you’re planning to join the June 12th protest. So, if you’re planning to join the protest, please read and take note of the following safety tips:

* Carry a back pack. You need this to pack some essential things that you’re going to need, such as water, energy drinks, snacks, money and first aid kit. Ensure the bag is not too heavy. You don’t want to experience back pain.

* Use a nose mask, maintain social distance, and be sure to carry a sanitizer in your back pack. Apart from your personal safety, olokpa can arrest you for violating COVID 19 guidelines. 

* Dress comfortable. You sure didn’t come to slay. Dress to stay safe and alive, especially in case there is need for you to japa. You know your leaders don’t have shame.

*Make friends. You can’t succeed in isolation. You need to buddy up.
Act within the ambits of the law. Do not do anything that will put you on the wrong side of the law.

*Be alert. Of course there will be hoodlums or law enforcement officers trying to destroy your good work. We have seen them do it over and over again. They won't change. 

*You should carry a little care pack (first aid kit). You may need it.

*While you look out for yourself, look out for other protesters as well.

*It is IMPORTANT  to read up on how to protect yourself from non lethal weapons such as tear gas, rubber bullets and batons here. You may want to lie down when you hear gun shots. There's a possibility that your people will shamelessly use live rounds. Remember #Endsars. 

*Please listen to your leaders. This will help coordinate the crowd, expecially when there is an attack by law enforcement officers or hoodlums. You don’t want to run carelessly or get in a fight.

Again, peaceful protest is your fundamental right. Do not let them wash you. But please, be careful. 

#KEEPITON 

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