Public Interest Litigation in Region (2).

Byline: Femi Falana

In justifying its stand the Court acknowledged the struggles of oppressed peoples in many parts of the world, including South Africa. According to Hayfron Benjamini JSC: "In rendering this opinion therefore we must take into serious consideration the struggles, exploits and demands of oppressed and struggling people in Africa, America and elsewhere led by such men as Nelson Mandele and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jnr., in their fight for fundamental human and civil rights.

Judging by the frequency with which the African National Congress and other political parties hold rallies and demonstrations in South Africa, the police would be very hard put to, if they were to issue a permit for any such rally or demonstration to be held. I do not believe a permit is required in that country to enable any person or group of persons to assembly, process or demonstrate. We cannot wish for these others, anything more that we wish for ourselves".

In the Nigerian case of Inspector_General of Police v. All Nigerian …