The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on King Charles III to use the upcoming state visit of President Bola Tinubu to address what it described as persistent human rights violations and shrinking civic space in Nigeria.
In an open letter dated March 18, 2026, and signed by its deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said the visit presents an opportunity to prioritise accountability, the rule of law, and human rights in Nigeria’s engagement with the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.
SERAP expressed concern over what it described as the increasing use of repressive laws, including provisions of the Cybercrimes Act and criminal defamation laws, to target journalists, activists, and critics. It said such actions undermine Nigeria’s obligations under international human rights standards.
The group also highlighted the situation of internally displaced persons in states such as Benue State, Borno State, and Plateau State, noting that many face restrictions on movement, limited access to healthcare, and inadequate legal protections.
“Thousands of displaced Nigerians continue to face serious human rights challenges and are often excluded from decisions affecting their lives and future,” the letter stated.
SERAP further criticised what it described as growing restrictions on civic space, citing cases involving activist Omoyele Sowore, journalist Daniel Ojukwu, and lawyer Dele Farotimi as examples of alleged intimidation and prosecution for peaceful expression.
The organisation argued that the arrest and detention of individuals for expressing dissent violates both Nigeria’s Constitution and its international commitments, warning that such practices create a climate of fear and weaken democratic accountability.
SERAP urged King Charles III to use his “moral authority” to encourage reforms, including ending arbitrary detention, protecting freedom of expression, and ensuring displaced persons are treated with dignity and allowed to participate in decisions about their resettlement.
It also called for improved transparency in the management of displacement camps and independent monitoring to prevent abuses and ensure humanitarian needs are met.
The group said the credibility of the Commonwealth depends on its members upholding shared values, stressing that the state visit should amplify calls by Nigerians for justice, accountability, and respect for fundamental rights.
