Nigerians have expressed shock over the invasion of the Abuja office of the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, by men of the Department of State Services, DSS.

In a post on X on Monday, SERAP raised an alarm over the invasion by armed men of the DSS, demanding to see the rights group’s directors.

It reads: “Officers from Nigeria’s State Security Service (SSS) are presently unlawfully occupying SERAP’s office in Abuja, asking to see our directors.

“President Tinubu must immediately direct the SSS to end the harassment, intimidation, and attack on the rights of Nigerians.”

This development has, however, triggered reactions from Nigerians across social media, with many describing the move as a way to suppress opposing voices.

In a statement, Amnesty International condemned the unlawful invasion of the group’s office.

It reads, “Amnesty International received disturbing report of the unlawful invasion of the Abuja office of Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, by operatives of DSS.

“President Bola Tinubu is going too far in his government’s repressive efforts to gag dissenting voice.

“SERAP stands for accountability against corruption. It is bizarre that the DSS — which should focus on protecting Nigeria — are shockingly acting without respect for the rule of law, by consistently targeting civil society organizations and activists.”

Former Kaduna senator Shehu Sani wrote on X, “The reported invasion of SERAP office is concerning. Security agencies must respect the fundamental rights of the organisation, its officials and members as guaranteed by the constitution of the country.”

Human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong wrote on X, “The invasion of SERAP’s Abuja office by the SSS is unacceptable. The President Tinubu’s regime must end the attack on dissent.”

A user, @RolandNGabriel, said, “This is not acceptable. The attack on the Civil Society must not be allowed.

“The Federal Govt must call their agencies to order and respect Nigeria’s constitution.”

@Idolax said, “Just wondering, who are the set of people advising this govt? Everything about this govt seems anti-people.

“More like a vendetta against the citizens. Is this what renewed hope means?”