By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
The Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has raised serious concerns over the handling of the Sit-at-Home crisis in Anambra State, warning that recent government actions could push the state toward deeper insecurity and social breakdown.
In a press statement dated January 29, 2026, the human rights organization condemned reported threats of property demolition and the closure of schools by the Anambra State Government under Governor , describing the measures as undemocratic and dangerous.
FENRAD said the use of punitive actions against civilians risks worsening an already fragile security situation, rather than restoring public order.
According to the group, shutting down primary and secondary schools in response to the Sit-at-Home enforcement violates children’s fundamental right to education and exposes young people to long-term social harm.
The organization noted that education is protected under both Nigerian law and international frameworks, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
“Denying children access to education increases their vulnerability to exploitation, abuse, and social exclusion,” FENRAD stated.
The group also expressed concern over threats of demolition and collective punishment, warning that such actions may amount to arbitrary interference with property rights and could deepen resentment within affected communities.
Drawing from past conflict experiences, FENRAD cautioned that force-based responses to politically rooted crises often intensify grievances instead of resolving them.
The organization urged Governor Soludo and other South-East governors to abandon coercive approaches and pursue inclusive dialogue involving community leaders, civil society groups, and traditional institutions.
FENRAD further called on international human rights bodies, diplomatic missions, and development partners to closely monitor developments in Anambra State, particularly as they relate to education, property rights, and civic freedoms.
The group also appealed for immediate protection of schools, students, markets, and civilian populations from punitive or militarized policy responses.
In its statement, FENRAD reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful engagement, democratic governance, and the protection of fundamental human rights, while expressing readiness to collaborate with national and international stakeholders to promote peace and accountability in the South-East.
— Newspot Nigeria
