The Network for Civil Society Organizations (NOCSON) has accused Edo State Waste Management Agency of human rights abuse, alleging extortion and misconduct in its operations.

Secretary General of the group, Mr Ogbidi Emmanuel said this while delivering a public lecture to mark the 2019 anti-Corruption and Human Rights Day Celebration on Tuesday in Benin City, Edo State Capital.

He condemned the continuous detention of pro-democracy activist and Convener of #Revolution now with his co-accused, Mr Olawole Bakare by the Department of State Security Service (DSS) haven been granted bail by a federal High court and the emergence of social Media bill also known as hate speech bill before the National Assembly.

According to Ogbidi, “The reckless and unguided activities of the current Edo State Waste Management board has also become rampant in recent time, with cases of extortion, over blotted bills, high handedness and oppression with the instrumentality of the Nigeria Police Force”.

He also called on the State government to reorganise the Board for better service in with acceptable norms.

Speaking on the theme, “stand up for your rights, Marxist Kola Edokpayi, Speaker of the Talakawa Parliament who relied a plethora of authorities since the United Nations resolution of 1948 was passed after the World war II, said, “no nation can make progress without respect for human rights”.

He alleged that Nigeria Civil space for human rights has shrunk both in practice and principle under President Muhammadu Buhari watch.

Edokpayi said: ” It is so painful today that Nigeria is exhibiting the practice of despotism and totalitarianism by vandals in power”.

The Benin-based activist who was earlier framed for alleged treason charges by Edo State government, said, “today, it is Omoyele Sowore, Owolabi Bakare and Agba Jalingo who was thrown into prison in defence of human rights.

“They charged me before for unlawful Assembly, conspiracy and unlawful Assembly. The question is, is this the Country, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and late Anthony Enahoro fought for?

“We must fight for our rights” in defence of our democracy and the rule of law”, he stressed.

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