EndBadGovernance: CDWR Demands Immediate Release Of Arrested Activists

The Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights (CDWR) has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of activists detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) during recent nationwide protests against bad governance.

Among those arrested are Michael Adaramoye and Babatunde Oluajo, key figures in the ongoing demonstrations. CDWR, in a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bosah Chinedu, also expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the protests.

The group criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broadcast on August 4, 2024, describing it as arrogant and insensitive to the severe challenges faced by Nigerians. CDWR accused Tinubu of reinforcing failed policies that have exacerbated the suffering of the populace.

“CDWR extends its sympathies to the injured and the families of those who were killed by security agents. We call on the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and other pro-masses organizations to publicly condemn the ongoing repression of protesters,” the statement read.

CDWR demands the reversal of all harmful policies, including reducing petroleum prices and electricity tariffs to pre-May 2023 levels, halting the devaluation of the Naira, and ending neoliberal policies such as privatization and deregulation of essential sectors. The group also advocates for free and quality education and healthcare, and respect for democratic rights to protest and dissent.

The statement criticized Tinubu’s recent address as failing to address the protesters’ demands and accused him of perpetuating policies that have led to widespread hardship. CDWR condemned the President for not reversing the recent increases in petrol and electricity costs, which have deepened poverty and misery for many Nigerians.

“The expectation from a responsive and empathetic president would be to reverse these harmful reforms. Instead, President Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to these detrimental policies, showing a lack of regard for the plight of the Nigerian people,” the statement concluded.