In recent years, the modus operandi of Nigeria's security agencies, particularly the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has come under intense scrutiny for its heavy-handed tactics, abuse of power, and double standards in handling corruption cases.
The EFCC and other security agencies have been known to intimidate and abuse ordinary citizens, while corrupt government officials are treated with kid gloves. This double standard not only undermines public trust in these institutions but also perpetuates a culture of impunity that has become a hallmark of Nigeria's political landscape.
The cases of Beta Edu and Tunji Ojo serve as a glaring example of this double standard. While Tunji Ojo, a minister in President Tinubu's government, has been accused of being involved in a corruption scandal, he has not been subjected to the same level of scrutiny and intimidation that ordinary citizens face at the hands of security agencies.
The modus operandi of Nigeria's security agencies must be urgently reviewed to ensure that they operate within the bounds of the law and respect the rights of citizens. There must be zero tolerance for intimidation, abuse, and double standards in the fight against corruption.
In recent times, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has been at the forefront of advocating for a better minimum wage for Nigerian workers. However, this struggle cannot be left to the NLC alone. It is time for Nigerian youths to rise and join hands with the NLC in pushing for a better minimum wage that is reflective of the current economic realities.
The recent proposal for a minimum wage increase by the NLC is a step in the right direction, and the state governments must be held accountable to approve and implement this increase. The youths of Nigeria must recognize that this struggle is not just for the current workforce but for the future of the nation.
The Kenyan example is a testament to the power of collective action. Nigerian youths must draw inspiration from this and stand in solidarity with the NLC to ensure that the proposed minimum wage is approved and implemented.
This struggle is not just about wages; it is about dignity, fairness, and the future of Nigeria. The youths must understand that their active participation in this struggle is crucial for shaping a better future for themselves and generations to come. The time for action is now. Nigerian youths must rise and stand with the NLC in the fight for a better minimum wage.
The actions of the EFCC and other security agencies in Nigeria often violate various provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, particularly those related to fundamental human rights.
For instance, Section 34 (1) (a) of the Nigerian Constitution states that "every individual is entitled to respect for the dignity of his person, and accordingly no person shall be subject to torture or to inhuman or degrading treatment." However, the abuse and intimidation tactics employed by security agencies against ordinary citizen
Section 35 (1) guarantees "every person shall be entitled to his personal liberty and no person shall be deprived of such liberty save in the following cases and in accordance with a procedure permitted by law." The arbitrary detention and violation of due process, often seen in the operations of security agencies, contravene this constitutional provision.
Section 36 (6) (c) guarantees that "every person who is charged with a criminal offence shall be presumed innocent until he is proved guilty." However, the manner in which security agencies handle corruption cases involving high-profile government officials
The actions of the EFCC and other security agencies must align with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution. Any violations should be addressed promptly and effectively to ensure that the rights of citizens are protected and the rule of law is upheld.
I’m Chief Dr Patrick Osagie Eholor otherwise known as Ultimate Equal, President One Love Foundation.