By Emamuzo Iboma
The Civic Trenches and Allied Human Rights Organizations have issued a powerful public petition condemning Nigeria’s recent actions against Palestinian community leaders and warning against becoming entangled in the Israel-Palestine conflict.
The petition signed by calls for the immediate release of detained Palestinian advocates, including prominent activist Ramzy Abu Ibrahim, and urges the Nigerian government to uphold its constitutional principles of human rights, democracy, and sovereignty.
The petition was signed by Omotaje Olawale Saint of WorkBond International Network (WIN) Co-Organisations: United Action for Democracy (UAD), Lagos State Liberation Congress, Centre for Human and Socio-economic Rights, Yoruba Youth Assembly, Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence, Youth Initiative Agenda for Democratic Process, Southwest People Parliamentary Agenda, Peace Initiative For Better Nigeria, and Youth League Academy.
Expressing grave concern over reports that Nigerian security forces abducted Palestinian leaders without due process, the petition describes these actions as a violation of international human rights standards and Nigeria’s own constitutional commitments.
The organizations warn that engaging in the Middle East conflict risks jeopardizing Nigeria’s fragile security, economy, and social cohesion.
The petition strongly condemns Nigeria’s recent security pact with Israel, arguing it may be used to suppress legitimate dissent and silence pro-Palestinian voices within the country.
It emphasizes that advocacy for Palestinian rights is a fundamental human right and urges Nigeria to remain neutral, uphold justice, and reject any form of proxy involvement in external conflicts.
Among the demands are the unconditional release of Abu Ibrahim and other detained leaders, respect for the rights of Palestinians in Nigeria, and a review of diplomatic agreements that may undermine Nigeria’s independence.
The coalition calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to stand on the side of justice, human dignity, and peace.
This collective voice from Nigerian civil society underscores the urgent need to protect human rights and resist external pressures that threaten national sovereignty and social harmony.
The petition concludes with a call for Nigeria to champion humanity and justice in the ongoing Middle East crisis.
