MECCA, Saudi Arabia – Former Niger Delta militant and ex-leader of the now-defunct Niger Delta Peoples Volunteer Force, Asari Dokubo, has accused individuals allegedly threatening the newly formed administration of President Bola Tinubu of engaging in acts of treason.
He called for legal action against these individuals, stating they should be imprisoned.
In a telephone interview with journalists from Saudi Arabia on Friday, June 30, 2023, Dokubo said, “What these people are embarking upon is treason.”
He emphasised that if treason is defined as betraying one’s country, then those who are issuing threats to the Nigerian government should be charged accordingly.
He labeled these critics as “unpatriotic Nigerians,” highlighting that they are not seeking dialogue but are instead “threatening a popularly elected federal government, not even state or local government.”
The Human Rights Writers Association, HURIWA, has previously levelled allegations against Dokubo, accusing him of harassment and unlawful possession of assault rifles.
The association also claimed that Dokubo had threatened to coordinate a nationwide protest.
In response to these allegations, Dokubo dismissed them and expressed bewilderment at the idea that he would ally himself “with people who threaten a government that is on a clear rescue mission.”
Asari Dokubo is known for his outspoken nature, and his comments come at a time when the new administration of President Bola Tinubu is facing criticism from various quarters.
His stance has opened up discussions on the thin line between freedom of expression and acts that could be considered treasonous, especially in the context of criticism or opposition towards a sitting government.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the Nigerian government will address these concerns and how it will balance upholding the law with respecting citizens’ rights to free speech and peaceful protest.
