Nigerian actress and media personality Omotunde Adebowale David, better known as Lolo 1, has spoken out against the use of tear gas canisters by the police to disperse demonstrators during the Take-It-Back Movement and other civil society organizations’ protest in Abuja.

In a recent interview, Lolo 1 denounced the heavy-handed tactics used by security forces, questioning the justification for such measures against peaceful protesters. She emphasized that Nigerian citizens have a constitutional right to gather peacefully, particularly when no violence or criminal activities are involved.

Lolo 1 expressed her concerns, stating:

"Citizens have a right to peacefully gather; it’s their right in the constitution. But when they now gather and there is no form of violence, it’s not like they’re carrying guns or anything, no form of violence or agitation."

The actress questioned the actions of security operatives, wondering if there was anything in the protesters' behavior that might have led the authorities to believe they were about to disrupt public order. She pointed out that, even if protesters were chanting, “it’s just words”, and there were no indications that the gathering would lead to a breakdown of law and order.

Lolo 1 further criticized the aggressive response, asking:

"If nothing like that has happened, is the show of force not too aggressive?"

Her remarks highlight a broader concern about the treatment of peaceful demonstrations in Nigeria and raise important questions about the balance between maintaining order and respecting the rights of citizens to voice their opinions without fear of retribution.

While she expressed support for lawful actions to maintain peace, Lolo 1 believes that the excessive use of force, particularly against non-violent protesters, is not only unnecessary but also detrimental to the democratic process.

The Bigger Picture: Balancing Rights and Security

In her comments, Lolo 1 joins the growing chorus of voices calling for a more measured approach in handling protests in Nigeria. The incident in Abuja highlights the tension between civil liberties and law enforcement tactics, with the constitutional right to peaceful assembly often coming into conflict with perceived concerns about public safety.

As more Nigerians continue to stand up for their rights through protests, the need for a constructive dialogue between the government, security forces, and citizens becomes clearer. Respecting the right to peaceful protest is crucial for the preservation of democracy, but it must be balanced with the protection of public safety in a way that does not infringe on fundamental freedoms.

What are your thoughts on the use of force during peaceful protests? Should there be stricter regulations on how security forces handle such demonstrations?