By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
Umuahia, Abia State — The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has expressed concern over what it describes as the growing wave of civil and criminal litigations taking place in Abia State, warning that some of these cases appear politically motivated and capable of deepening political tensions.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, FENRAD acknowledged that seeking redress in court is a democratic right. However, it urged political actors and citizens to exercise caution, decorum, and respect for the independence of the judiciary as ongoing legal disputes unfold across the state.
Respect for the Judiciary and Rule of Law
The rights group emphasized that the courts remain the last hope of the common man and should not be dragged into partisan conflicts.
“Litigation should never be weaponized as a means of silencing dissent or intimidating opponents,” FENRAD said, adding that justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done.
The group also cautioned against the use of cybercrime laws and related legal instruments to criminalize criticism or legitimate civic engagement by journalists, civil society actors, or private citizens.
Call for Responsible Public Discourse
FENRAD noted rising levels of hostile and inflammatory rhetoric in both traditional and social media within the state. It called for fact-based public engagement and responsible commentary.
“Democracy thrives when citizens engage in robust yet respectful debate. Vilification, hate speech, and misinformation only deepen divisions,”
the group stated.
Defending Constructive Dissent
Reaffirming that dissent is a cornerstone of democratic society, FENRAD warned against moves that may shrink civic space or discourage public participation.
The organization called for inclusive dialogue, tolerance, and civic education as tools for strengthening democratic governance.
Full Statement
Press Release
Rights Group Calls for Caution, Respectful Public Discourse, and Respect for Constructive Dissent Amid Rising Wave of Litigation in Abia State
Umuahia, Abia State — 30th October 2025
The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD), a pro-democracy and human rights organization committed to justice, accountability, and civic engagement, expresses deep concern over the growing wave of civil and criminal litigations currently sweeping across Abia State, many of which appear politically motivated.
While recognizing that recourse to the courts is a legitimate democratic tool for seeking justice, FENRAD urges all political actors, stakeholders, and citizens to exercise caution and decorum in both language and action as these legal processes unfold.
Respect for the Rule of Law and Judicial Independence
FENRAD reiterates that the courts remain the last hope of the common man and must be treated with the utmost respect. The organization calls on litigants and their supporters to avoid comments, protests, or actions that could be construed as attempts to influence judicial proceedings or undermine public confidence in the judiciary.
Litigation should never be weaponized as a means of silencing dissent or intimidating opponents. In a democracy, justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.
The group further cautions against the misuse of cybercrime laws and related legal instruments to criminalize dissenting voices, journalists, or civic actors who express opinions or criticisms in good faith. Such actions, FENRAD warns, risk shrinking the civic space and eroding democratic freedoms guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution.
Call for Responsible Public Discourse
The organization notes with concern the increasingly toxic nature of public conversations—both in traditional and social media—within Abia State. FENRAD calls for measured, respectful, and fact-based discourse, reminding all commentators, media outlets, and political parties that freedom of expression comes with a corresponding duty of responsibility.
Democracy thrives when citizens engage in robust yet respectful debate. Vilification, hate speech, and misinformation only deepen divisions and distract from the substantive issues of governance and justice.
Defending the Right to Constructive Dissent
FENRAD affirms that constructive dissent is an essential component of democracy. The group warns against any attempts—direct or indirect—to criminalize or delegitimize peaceful expression of differing opinions. Instead, it encourages inclusive dialogue, civic education, and tolerance as means of strengthening democratic governance in Abia State.
FENRAD emphasizes that the right to free expression must be safeguarded at all times, provided it does not infringe on the rights and reputations of others or threaten public peace.
Conclusion
As a responsible civil society organization, FENRAD urges all parties—political actors, the media, and citizens—to prioritize peace, due process, and mutual respect. The group believes that only through open, tolerant, and law-abiding engagement can Abia State sustain and deepen the democratic gains recorded in recent years.
Signed:
Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor
Executive Director
Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD)
📧 [email protected] | 🌐 www.fenrad.org.ng | ☎ +234-803-338-3708, 0706-294-9232
This report is published by Newspot Nigeria.
