Hundreds of protesters in Nigeria face ongoing political and police repression. This includes two members of the Democratic Socialist Movement, the sister party of the Socialist Party in Nigeria. Michael Lenin has been charged with treason, which carries a maximum sentence of the death penalty, part of the state’s attempts to intimidate protesters.
Protests against the dire cost-of-living crisis, made worse by the policies of President Tinubu, swept the country in August. In the early hours of 5 August, security services stormed the flat where they were staying and arrested Michael and two others. National trade union leaders have been among those facing repression too.
Michael has been granted bail with onerous conditions – including a large sum and restriction on his right to speak out. Socialist Party members are supporting the campaign organised by Nigeria Solidarity UK, fighting for all the charges to be dropped and for the release of all protesters still held.
Nigeria Solidarity UK activists are organising protests nationwide on 5 October, including at 2pm outside of the Nigeria High Commission in London, 9 Northumberland Ave WC2N 5BX
- For resources, including a model trade union motion, visit Nigeriasolidarity.com