Human Rights Tension Builds: SERAP Wants King Charles To Question Tinubu During Visit

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on King Charles III to use President Bola Tinubu’s upcoming state visit to the United Kingdom as an opportunity to address concerns surrounding alleged human rights issues in Nigeria.

The organisation stated that the visit should go beyond diplomatic and economic discussions, urging a stronger focus on accountability, the rule of law, and the protection of civil liberties.

In an open letter dated March 18, 2026, signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP emphasized that the engagement presents a valuable chance for the British monarch to advocate for improved respect for human rights in Nigeria.

According to the group, the visit offers a timely platform to prioritise issues of governance, accountability, and adherence to democratic principles within both bilateral and Commonwealth relations.

SERAP expressed concern over what it described as a shrinking civic space in Nigeria, pointing to the alleged use of laws such as the Cybercrimes Act and criminal defamation statutes to suppress journalists and critics.

It argued that such practices conflict with Nigeria’s international human rights commitments and warned that they weaken democratic accountability.

The organisation stressed that individuals should not face arrest or prosecution for peacefully exercising their fundamental rights.

SERAP also highlighted the plight of internally displaced persons in states such as Benue, Borno, and Plateau, noting that many continue to face serious challenges, including limited access to healthcare, freedom of movement, and legal protections.

It further stated that displaced communities are often excluded from decisions affecting their welfare and lack adequate information about their rights.

The group urged King Charles to leverage his influence to encourage reforms that would strengthen human rights protections in Nigeria, adding that the credibility of the Commonwealth depends on member states upholding shared democratic values.

Among its recommendations, SERAP called on Nigerian authorities to safeguard journalists and activists, end alleged harassment, restore the rights of displaced persons, ensure transparency in detention practices, and permit independent monitoring of displacement camps.

It also urged the government to drop charges against individuals detained for expressing their views and to foster a more supportive environment for civil society.

SERAP concluded by stressing that the state visit should reflect the concerns of Nigerians seeking justice, accountability, and respect for their fundamental rights.