Attackers of protesting Itsekiri youths, should be brought to justice, NAIG tells security agencies

The National Association of Itsekiri Graduates, NAIG, has called on the relevant security agencies to immediately investigate the physical attack and intimidation allegedly unleashed on peaceful Itsekiri youths at Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC headquarters, Abuja, saying the perpetrators should be identified and brought to justice.

NAIG, also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to remain impartial, transparent, and inclusive in handling issues relating to the ward delineation process in Warri Federal Constituency, in order to sustain public confidence and prevent avoidable tensions.

President of National Association of Itsekiri Graduates, NAIG, Esiategiwa Mino, who made the call in an electronic statement released in Warri, Tuesday May 26, described the reported attack as barbaric, provocative, and a clear violation of the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression as guaranteed under the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.  

According to Itsekiri graduates’ leader, the protesting youths, acting within the bounds of the law, gathered peacefully to express their dissatisfaction and concerns, regarding the ward delineation process, which has generated widespread apprehension among the Itsekiri people.

He stated: “It is therefore deeply disturbing that such a peaceful civic engagement, was reportedly met with violence and hostility. NAIG maintains that no group of Nigerians should be attacked, harassed, or intimidated for peacefully demanding transparency, fairness, and justice in matters that directly affect their political representation and communal identity.

“We call on the relevant security agencies to immediately investigate the attack and ensure that all perpetrators are identified and brought to justice.

“We also urge the Independent National Electoral Commission to remain impartial, transparent, and inclusive in handling issues relating to the ward delineation process in order to sustain public confidence and prevent avoidable tensions.

“The National Association of Itsekiri Graduates further calls on all Itsekiri youths and stakeholders to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding despite the provocation, while continuing to pursue justice through legitimate and democratic means. The unity, peace, and rights of the Itsekiri people must be respected at all times.”

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