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SERAP Urges King Charles III to Raise Human Rights Concerns During Tinubu’s UK Visit

Phinadon Mag

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Rights group urges King Charles III to press Tinubu on human rights, civic space, and rule of law during Nigeria–UK state visit.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on King Charles III to use President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to the United Kingdom to address persistent human rights violations and the shrinking civic space in Nigeria.

In a letter dated 18 March 2026 and signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP described the visit as a timely opportunity to place human rights, accountability, and the rule of law at the centre of bilateral and Commonwealth engagement.

Concerns Over Repressive Laws and Civic Space

SERAP expressed concern about the use of repressive laws and strategic lawsuits to intimidate journalists, activists, and critics, citing the Cybercrimes Act and criminal defamation laws as tools used to suppress free expression.

The group also highlighted the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Benue, Borno, and Plateau States, noting that many are denied basic rights such as freedom of movement, healthcare, and legal protection.

Commonwealth Obligations and Moral Responsibility

SERAP reminded the British monarch that Nigeria, as a Commonwealth member, is bound by the Commonwealth Charter, which upholds human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

The group urged King Charles III to leverage his moral authority to encourage human rights reforms, stressing that the credibility of the Commonwealth depends on members’ willingness to uphold shared values.

Cases Highlighting Shrinking Civic Space

SERAP cited the prosecution of activist and journalist Omoyele Sowore, the 2024 detention of investigative journalist Daniel Ojukwu, and the arrest of lawyer Dele Farotimi as examples of growing restrictions on civic freedoms.

SERAP’s Recommendations to the UK and Nigeria

The organisation urged King Charles III to encourage the Nigerian government to:

  • Restore the rights of IDPs, ensuring freedom of movement and voluntary participation in camps.
  • Guarantee dignity and fundamental rights for all Nigerians.
  • Allow independent monitoring of IDP camps to prevent abuse.
  • Establish consultative processes for resettlement and return decisions.
  • End arbitrary detentions and ensure compliance with legal safeguards.
  • Drop charges against individuals detained for peaceful expression.
  • Cease harassment of journalists, activists, and civil society groups.
  • Withdraw SLAPP suits targeting journalists and organisations, including SERAP.

News

Police arrest Bauchi man accused of poisoning motorcyclist and stealing his bike.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Operatives of the Bauchi State Police Command have arrested a 27-year-old man, Isiyaka Badamasi, for allegedly poisoning a commercial motorcyclist in an attempt to steal his motorcycle.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Nafiu Habib, Badamasi and his alleged accomplice, Ma’aruf Sani, reportedly offered a 21-year-old motorcyclist a sweet containing a harmful substance. The victim, who resides in the Yelwa Tudun area of Bauchi, allegedly became intoxicated after consuming it.

The suspects were said to have attempted to dispossess him of his Bajaj Boxer motorcycle. However, the victim raised an alarm after sensing danger, attracting members of the public who apprehended Badamasi. Sani, both of whose residents are reportedly from Na’ibawa in Kano State, escaped and is currently the subject of a police manhunt.

The victim was taken to Gamuwa Primary Health Care Centre, where he remains on admission and is responding to treatment.

The Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation. The command also urged residents to remain vigilant and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

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Entertainment

Lojay: My uncle told me I would never succeed in music.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Nigerian singer Lojay has revealed that he faced significant opposition when he decided to pursue a career in music, including doubts from members of his family.

Speaking during a recent livestream with content creator Gilmore, the “Monalisa” hitmaker recalled that one of his wealthy and influential uncles, who is now involved in politics, told him he would never succeed in the music industry.

“I have an uncle who is now in politics. I won’t mention his name, but he is very rich and popular. When I wanted to start music, he told me I would never blow,” Lojay said.

Despite the discouragement, the singer remained committed to his ambition and used the criticism as motivation. He expressed satisfaction that his perseverance had eventually produced positive results.

Lojay also encouraged his fans to remain confident in their dreams and avoid allowing negative opinions to define their ambitions.

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News

Benue Police Deny Withdrawal of Mobile Personnel from Ayilamo.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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The Nigeria Police Command in Benue State has dismissed reports alleging that Mobile Police personnel were withdrawn from Ayilamo community in Logo Local Government Area.

In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Orchia Aondogwu, the report was described as unfounded and baseless. He stated that Mobile Police personnel remained deployed in Ayilamo alongside the Divisional Police team and other tactical units.

Aondogwu also said additional military personnel had been deployed to reinforce security in the area, urging the public to disregard the report.

However, the traditional ruler of Ayilamo, Mue Ter, Chief Torkoer Samuel, contradicted the police account. He claimed that the Mobile Police personnel left the community on Wednesday with their equipment and Armoured Personnel Carriers.

The conflicting accounts have raised questions about the current security situation in Ayilamo and the extent of military presence in the community.

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