The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has condemned the reported detention of renowned Nigerian novelist and author, Okey Ndibe, by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. SERAP described the action as unlawful and a violation of fundamental rights.
Details of the Incident
According to SERAP, Ndibe was reportedly detained by DSS operatives upon his arrival in Nigeria from the United States before being released hours later. Reports indicated that the agency justified his release by stating that the officer handling his case file was out of the country.
SERAP's Statement
In a statement signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation alleged that the incident reflects a growing pattern of intimidation and harassment of critics, activists, journalists and civil society actors under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. SERAP argued that the use of security agencies to target individuals for expressing dissenting views undermines constitutional guarantees and Nigeria’s international human rights commitments.
Legal and Human Rights Implications
The body maintained that no individual should face arrest, harassment or detention for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly. It noted that such actions are inconsistent with provisions of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, as well as international instruments including the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Union African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
Demands for Accountability
SERAP called on the Federal Government to publicly clarify the legal basis for Ndibe’s detention, ensure transparency surrounding the circumstances of the incident and prevent security agencies from abusing their powers. The group also urged authorities to provide the author with access to justice and effective remedies.
Appeal to International Bodies
Furthermore, it appealed to international and regional human rights bodies, including the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, to condemn the alleged arbitrary detention and monitor Nigeria’s compliance with its human rights obligations.
