In a statement signed by Kudu Abubakar and Taiwo Adeleye on
behalf of the NHRC, the group described the protests as an attack on the
foundations of democracy and free speech.

The coalition expressed concern that such “orchestrated
rallies” undermine democratic integrity and fuel authoritarian tendencies

The NHRC criticised a recent rally in Abuja led by one
Solomon Semaka, where protesters carried banners reading “Falana stop
blackmailing Nigerian military” and “Falana enough is enough”.

The coalition labelled the protest as irresponsible and a
deliberate attempt to tarnish Falana’s historic contributions to Nigeria’s
democratic development.

“This action of a few scavengers is ridiculous. It is an
attack on free speech and a dangerous pattern that may promote counter measures
from Nigerian masses who largely support the historic interventions of Mr
Falana in the affairs of bad governance in Nigeria spanning over four decades,”
the statement reads.

The group warned that the attacks on Falana, who has
defended the rights of many including military personnel, risk provoking
widespread public backlash.

“This action of a few scavengers is ridiculous and
dangerous,” the NHRC said, urging Nigerians to oppose attempts to undermine
Falana’s legacy.

The NHRC also cautioned the military, suspected of funding
the protests, to avoid provoking counter-demonstrations from Nigerians who
support Falana’s interventions against bad governance and human rights abuses.