Reps Frown Against Use Of Tear Gas On Protesters At National Assembly Entrance

The House of Representatives has said it will take up what it described as alleged use of tear gas on protesters at the National Assembly with relevant authorities.

Hon. Akin Rotimi, Spokesman of the House in a statement yesterday said the Green Chamber will also cause a thorough review of the circumstances that led to the alleged incident.

LEADERSHIP reports that personnel of Nigeria Police Force threw canisters of teargas at protesters at the National Assembly main entrance.

Trouble started when some protesters who besieged the National Assembly to express their grievances against Senate’s approval of both electronic transmission and manual collation of election results tried to forcefully gain entrance in the building.

It led to pandemonium as the protesters in their hundreds, especially women who were scampering for safety, fell on one after the other.

LEADERSHIP observed that two women of about 50 and 22 years each fainted as a result of the tear gas inhalation just as its Correspondents suffered severe eye pain and other irritations as a result of exposure to dangerous substances.

The House spokesman expressed worry over the incident, saying the House recognised that the right to peaceful and lawful assembly is guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

“The House of Representatives has received with concern reports regarding the alleged use of tear gas against protesters who assembled at the National Assembly to express their views on a number of topical national issues currently before the Parliament.

“The House unequivocally recognises that the right to peaceful and lawful assembly is guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). This right remains a fundamental pillar of democratic governance and an essential mechanism through which citizens participate in the legislative process.

“While acknowledging the constitutional responsibility of security agencies to maintain law and order, as well as to safeguard lives and property within and around the National Assembly Complex, the House emphasises that such responsibilities must always be discharged with professionalism, restraint, and full respect for the fundamental rights of citizens.

“In light of the seriousness of the reports received, the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs will take up the matter with relevant authorities and cause a thorough review of the circumstances that led to the alleged incident. Where necessary, appropriate steps will be taken in line with the oversight mandate of the House to ensure accountability and to prevent any recurrence.

“The House of Representatives remains firmly committed to being the People’s House not only in word but in action. Our doors remain open to Nigerians who choose to engage the Parliament peacefully and lawfully on matters of national importance.

“At the same time, we encourage all protesters to remain within the ambit of the law and to avoid any form of incitement, provocation, or conduct capable of escalating tensions. We must collectively strengthen the culture of civil protest in our democracy, ensuring that the exercise of rights is matched by a shared commitment to order, responsibility, and mutual respect.

“Constructive civic engagement strengthens our democracy, and the House will continue to promote an environment where citizens can express their views responsibly, safely, and within the bounds of the law,”the statement reads.

End.