By Ahmad Shuaibu Isa
I was deeply impressed to see various rights groups, including the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), vocally condemning the recent treason charges brought against minors allegedly involved in the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests.
True strength lies in an unwavering commitment to uphold the rights of all individuals. A society that values equality and justice for every person lays a foundation for enduring peace and progress.
Rights groups around the globe, including those in Nigeria, play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, providing essential support, and driving social change. Despite often operating with limited resources, these organisations address a broad spectrum of issues encompassing politics, health, education, and human rights, thereby empowering individuals to make informed decisions regarding their lives and communities.
In a diverse and dynamic country such as Nigeria, rights groups and their members are instrumental in safeguarding citizens from harm, fostering engagement, and facilitating progress. Their contributions warrant recognition, especially in light of the influence of major religious doctrines, predominantly Islam and Christianity.
A few weeks ago, reports emerged indicating that the Nigerian police were involved in the arrests of individuals, including women and children. Surprisingly, many remained silent, largely because the oppressed individuals were Shia Muslims.
Segregation and bias in a cosmopolitan country like Nigeria can result in social fragmentation, increased conflict, diminished economic collaboration, and weakened national unity. Such divisions undermine diversity and hinder progress by fostering mistrust and intolerance among various groups.
Regarding the Islamic hijab doctrine, it mandates modesty for Muslim women, emphasising the covering of the hair and body, with the exception of the face and hands. Rooted in the Qur’an and Hadith, it upholds principles of modesty, dignity, and respect. While cultural practices may differ, the essence of privacy and faith is universally acknowledged.
In Nigeria, over 60% of the population identifies as Muslim, representing more than 150 million individuals. Globally, the Muslim population stands at approximately 1.9 billion, constituting around 24% of the world’s populace.
The Nigerian Police’s decision in Abuja to forcibly remove the hijabs of certain Muslim women, specifically those who are disciples of Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky (H), is an affront to nearly 2 billion Muslims worldwide. This act reflects a serious lapse in professional conduct and ethics, yet many of these rights groups, including the NHRC, remained silent.
Are we aware that violations of religious rights disrupt societal harmony and individual dignity, thereby impeding our social cohesion and stability?
From the vantage points of dialectical materialism and structural functionalism, such actions can exacerbate class struggles within our society and undermine the societal functions necessary for collective stability and mutual respect.
No government can fulfil its objectives by targeting minority groups and minors. With Nigeria grappling with complex security issues and economic challenges, it is vital for the administration to focus on addressing these problems rather than alienating oppressed communities.
The Nigerian Police Force must reassess their objectives and ensure that their actions are characterised by professionalism, free from bias or misconduct.
I extend my gratitude to rights groups for their efforts and concerns.
Ahmad Shuaibu Isa
Monday, 4th November 2024