The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has called on King Charles III to use the state visit of Bola Tinubu to the United Kingdom as an opportunity to address alleged human rights violations and shrinking civic space in Nigeria.
Tinubu’s visit, expected to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and security ties between Nigeria and the UK, as well as reinforce relations within the Commonwealth, was described by SERAP as a “timely opportunity” to prioritise human rights, accountability, and the rule of law in bilateral engagements.
In a letter dated March 18, 2026, and signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation urged the British monarch to press the Nigerian government to uphold the rule of law and protect fundamental rights.
SERAP raised concerns over what it described as the increasing use of repressive laws, including the Cybercrimes Act and criminal defamation provisions, to target journalists, activists, and critics. It noted that such actions contradict Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.
The group also highlighted the conditions of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in northern states such as Benue State, Borno State, and Plateau State, stating that many are denied basic rights, including freedom of movement, access to healthcare, and legal protections.
According to SERAP, thousands of displaced Nigerians continue to face serious challenges and are often excluded from decisions affecting their welfare and future.
The organisation stressed that as a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, Nigeria is obligated to uphold values enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter, including respect for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
SERAP further urged King Charles III to use his moral authority to encourage reforms, noting that the credibility of the Commonwealth depends on its members’ commitment to shared values.
The group warned that Tinubu’s visit should not overlook the concerns of Nigerians advocating for justice and accountability, citing cases involving Omoyele Sowore, Daniel Ojukwu, and Dele Farotimi as examples of growing restrictions on civic space.
SERAP called for concrete steps from the Nigerian government, including restoring the rights of IDPs, ending arbitrary detention, allowing independent monitoring of displacement camps, and dropping charges against individuals detained for exercising their freedom of expression.
The organisation also urged authorities to stop the harassment of journalists, activists, bloggers, and civil society groups, and to withdraw strategic lawsuits aimed at silencing public participation, including those filed against SERAP itself.