The Association of Lawyers with Disabilities in Nigeria (ALDIN) has vehemently condemned the alleged assault on Alhaji Hamza Waziri, a physically challenged protester, by police officers in Bauchi. The incident, which occurred on August 1st, 2024, has sparked widespread outrage following the circulation of a video on social media that appears to show police officers brazenly abusing and manhandling Waziri.
ALDIN’s National President, Prince Ikem U. Uchegbulam Esq., has described the content of the video as both shocking and unacceptable. “The video depicts a heinous act that we, as a society, must not tolerate,” Uchegbulam stated. In response to the incident, ALDIN has taken immediate action by establishing a five-member committee to thoroughly investigate the matter and recommend appropriate actions, including potential litigation.
The committee, chaired by Mr. Rex Erameh, includes esteemed members Apolmida Haruna Tsammani, Sani Muhammed Moyi, Bolarinwo Lukman, and Justice Christopher, who will serve as the committee’s secretary. This diverse group is tasked with ensuring a comprehensive and unbiased investigation into the incident.
In his statement, Uchegbulam emphasized the importance of accountability and justice. “We are committed to ensuring that this matter is investigated thoroughly and that those responsible are held accountable. The rights of all citizens, particularly persons with disabilities, must be protected,” he said.
The committee will collaborate closely with the Bauchi chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD). This partnership aims to provide a holistic and inclusive approach to the investigation, ensuring that the voices and concerns of the disability community are adequately represented and addressed.
The committee has been given a one-week deadline to submit its report, after which ALDIN plans to take swift and decisive action. “This is not just about seeking justice for Alhaji Waziri; it is about sending a clear message that abuse and brutality, especially against vulnerable individuals, will not be tolerated,” Uchegbulam added.
The alleged assault on Alhaji Waziri has brought to light the broader issues of police brutality and the systemic challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Nigeria. According to eyewitness accounts, Waziri was peacefully protesting near the Government House in Bauchi when police officers confronted him. Despite exercising his constitutional right to protest, he was reportedly subjected to physical abuse and intimidation.
In an exclusive interview with LEADERSHIP Weekend, Waziri recounted his ordeal. “Imagine a world where exercising your constitutional right to peaceful protest is met with violence and brutality,” he said. “This is the unfortunate reality that I personally faced today in broad daylight when I staged a peaceful protest in front of Bauchi State Government House.”
Waziri’s account has further fueled public outrage and calls for systemic reforms. “Simply for standing up for my rights, basic human rights, I was assaulted by the police,” Waziri said. “The police, the very institution meant to protect and serve us citizens, responded with violence and cruelty, with no regard for decency.”
The incident has prompted a strong response from various human rights organizations and activists. Many have highlighted the urgent need for reforms within the police force and the implementation of measures to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. The video of Waziri’s assault has been widely shared on social media, with many users expressing their solidarity and calling for justice.
In a statement, the Bauchi State government expressed deep concern over the incident. Mukhtar Gidado Mohammed, the special adviser to the governor on media and publicity, underscored the administration’s commitment to the welfare and rights of all citizens, particularly vulnerable groups. “We wish to categorically state that the Bauchi State government under the inspirational leadership of Governor Bala Mohammed does not condone any form of violence or misconduct by law enforcement officers attached to the Government House or any government personnel,” the statement read.
Mohammed announced that the government would initiate a thorough investigation to ascertain the facts of the incident. He assured the public that if the officers involved were found to have acted improperly, they would be held accountable. “The state government remains committed to upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and respect for human rights,” Mohammed emphasized.
As the investigation unfolds, the public eagerly awaits the outcome, hoping for a resolution that will uphold justice and reinforce the commitment to human rights and equality in Nigeria. The case of Alhaji Hamza Waziri serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by disabled individuals and the urgent need for systemic change to address their plight.
The efforts by ALDIN and other advocacy groups signify a crucial step towards ensuring that the rights of persons with disabilities are respected and protected. The outcome of this investigation could set a significant precedent for future cases, reinforcing the notion that justice and equality must prevail in all spheres of society.
