The House of Representatives has expressed concern over reports that security operatives deployed tear gas on demonstrators who gathered at the National Assembly complex in Abuja to air their views on issues before parliament.
The position of the House was contained in a press statement issued Tuesday in Abuja by its spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi.
The lawmakers said they “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 statement stressed 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 noting the duty of security agencies to keep order and protect lives and property within and around the complex, the House maintained that such tasks “must always be discharged with professionalism, restraint, and full respect for the fundamental rights of citizens.”
It disclosed that the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs would engage the relevant authorities over the development and “cause a thorough review of the circumstances that led to the alleged incident.”
The statement added that “where necessary, appropriate steps will be taken in line with the oversight mandate of the House to ensure accountability and to prevent any recurrence.”
Reaffirming its openness to public participation, the lawmakers declared that “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.”
The House also urged demonstrators to conduct themselves within the law, cautioning against “any form of incitement, provocation, or conduct capable of escalating tensions,” and called for a culture of civil protest anchored on 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 read.
