Abuja - The Nigerian Court of Appeal in Abuja has ended the controversy surrounding public procession (protests/demonstrations) over whether or not there is a need for police permit before such processions can be undertaken by citizens of Nigeria. According to the ruling delivered by the the Appellate Court, presided over by Justice Danladi Mohammad, it is no longer necessary to obtain permit before embarking on any assembly as such police approval infringed on the fundamental human rights of Nigerians provided for in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal republic of Nigeria.

One of the Judges, Justice Adekeye said it was wrong to continue to rely on the colonial method of suppressing people from exercising and enjoying their rights under the disguise of Public Order Act.

This is not only a victory for democracy, but a defeat of police brutality, oppression, and disrespect for human rights. Nigerians, just like any other citizens across the civilized world, can now express themselves as long as the participants of any such demonstrations, remain law-abiding and peaceful. Gone are the days of military style of policing, where it was a taboo for anyone to raise a finger, talk less of demonstrating against government policies, election malpractices and annulments, or any anti-public actions.

Nigeria must be free indeed!

Read the full story from: ThisDay Newspapers: http://www.thisdayonline.com/nview.php?id=97726

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