In a scathing rebuke, the Take-It-Back Movement (TIB), a pro-democracy group, has vehemently condemned what it describes as the abuse of power and blatant infringement of fundamental human rights in the Gwagwalada area council. The group specifically targets Abubakar Jibrin Giri, the council chairman, for insulting residents during their protest against deteriorating infrastructure.
ChroniclesReporters, on January 6, 2023, highlighted the clash between the local TIB chapter and Chairman Giri over the state of Kutunku market and abattoir roads. Youth protesters, organized under the Concerned Citizens of Kutunku, expressed their grievances peacefully, demanding urgent repairs and threatening to shut down council facilities if their demands were ignored.
Protesters, armed with placards bearing messages like “Save Gwagwalada Now” and “Repair Market and Abattoir Road Now,” marched through Kutunku market road, highlighting years of neglect.
The Press Secretary to Chairman Giri, Ibrahim Yamawo, defended the administration’s performance in a media release, urging protesters to consider Giri’s interventions and leadership achievements.
However, TIB’s Abuja chapter, led by Agena Robert Ande, condemned the alleged intimidation and threats orchestrated by Chairman Giri and associates against activists like Manasseh Ben Paul. The pro-democracy group invoked Article 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, asserting the right to freedom of expression and decrying attempts to suppress dissent.
The statement raised concerns about the alleged awareness of a plot against Manasseh and TIB members by the Divisional Police Officer, Mr. Hamza, emphasizing the misuse of law enforcement for personal agendas.
TIB called on Nigerians, civil society organizations, and the media to condemn the actions of the Gwagwalada area council chairman and local police. Seeking justice and a commitment to constitutional principles, the group remains unwavering in its pursuit of a just and equitable society.