BREAKING: We condemn purported ‘ultimatum’ and threats of violence against @AmnestyNigeria by apparently pro-government groups and call on Nigerian authorities to act swiftly to end the harassment and intimidation against the group and ensure the safety and security of its staff.

We’ll hold authorities to account including through international legal action, if they fail to rein in these groups and stop increasing and apparently sponsored attacks, intimidation, harassment and threats against Amnesty International Office in Nigeria and its staff.

Any failure to hold to account those who may be responsible for the threats will invariably increase the vulnerability of civil society in the country, and strengthen the perception that threats against NGOs and human rights workers can happen with impunity.

We’ll continue to fight to challenge any attempt to restrict, silence or eliminate the voices of credible civil society in the country.

We urge the presidency to speak out strongly against intimidation and harassment of Amnesty International Office in Nigeria and its staff.

Investigating those behind the harassment, intimidation and threats of violence against AI, and naming and shaming the sponsors and bringing them to justice will send a powerful message of protection and support to civil society groups who stand up to speak truth to power.

Any attack on Amnesty International Office in Nigeria or harassment and intimidation of its staff members is an assault on the rule of law and the entire human rights community in the country.

This government has an obligation to support and protect civil society groups and human rights defenders against threats of violence and attacks.

Nigeria is a democratic society and the government can’t just sit back and watch threats against AI.

The authorities should show commitment to protecting the right to freedom of expression and guarantee conditions for civil society to operate and flourish.