TheCable

The federal government says it has started discussing with the United Kingdom over a petition seeking the sanction of Nigeria for alleged human rights abuses during the #EndSARS protests. 

On Monday, the UK parliament began a debate on the petition.

The petitioners had accused the government and the police of violating the rights of agitators protesting against police brutality.

Speaking at the end of the weekly federal executive council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday, Geoffrey Onyeama, minister of foreign affairs, said the government has reached out to the British government to present its own side of the story.

The minister said this is necessary to give the UK a balanced perspective of the development.

“The UK government has been briefed. There was UK parliamentarian meeting and UK government, which acts for the United Kingdom has also heard the side of the (Nigerian) government regarding everything that has happened,” Onyeama said.

“So, we have been in touch with them and engaging with them. As in every democracy, members of parliament are able to also air their view.

“What is important is that balanced picture is made available to them before they take any decision.”