The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD), a pro-democracy and human rights organization committed to justice, accountability, and civic engagement, expresses deep concern over the growing wave of civil and criminal litigations currently sweeping across Abia State, many of which appear politically motivated.
While recognizing that recourse to the courts is a legitimate democratic tool for seeking justice, FENRAD urges all political actors, stakeholders, and citizens to exercise caution and decorum in both language and action as these legal processes unfold.
Respect for the Rule of Law and Judicial Independence
FENRAD reiterates that the courts remain the last hope of the common man and must be treated with the utmost respect. The organization calls on litigants and their supporters to avoid comments, protests, or actions that could be construed as attempts to influence judicial proceedings or undermine public confidence in the judiciary.
Litigation should never be weaponized as a means of silencing dissent or intimidating opponents. In a democracy, justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done
The group further cautions against the misuse of cybercrime laws and related legal instruments to criminalize dissenting voices, journalists, or civic actors who express opinions or criticisms in good faith. Such actions, FENRAD warns, risk shrinking the civic space and eroding democratic freedoms guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution.
Call for Responsible Public Discourse
The organization notes with concern the increasingly toxic nature of public conversations—both in traditional and social media—within Abia State. FENRAD calls for measured, respectful, and fact-based discourse, reminding all commentators, media outlets, and political parties that freedom of expression comes with a corresponding duty of responsibility.
Democracy thrives when citizens engage in robust yet respectful debate. Vilification, hate speech, and misinformation only deepen divisions and distract from the substantive issues of governance and justice
Defending the Right to Constructive Dissent
FENRAD affirms that constructive dissent is an essential component of democracy. The group warns against any attempts—direct or indirect—to criminalize or delegitimize peaceful expression of differing opinions. Instead, it encourages inclusive dialogue, civic education, and tolerance as means of strengthening democratic governance in Abia State.
FENRAD emphasizes that the right to free expression must be safeguarded at all times, provided it does not infringe on the rights and reputations of others or threaten public peace.
Conclusion
As a responsible civil society organization, FENRAD urges all parties—political actors, the media, and citizens—to prioritize peace, due process, and mutual respect. The group believes that only through open, tolerant, and law-abiding engagement can Abia State sustain and deepen the democratic gains recorded in recent years.
Signed:
Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor
Executive Director
Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD)
📧 info@fenrad.org.ng | 🌐 www.fenrad.org.ng | ☎ +234-8033383708, 07062949232
