Abuja: Amb. Mahdavi Raja, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Nigeria, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to protecting its citizens’ rights and freedom. He emphasized Iran’s dedication to safeguarding public order and national security through targeted reforms aimed at easing economic pressures and restoring calm, amidst recent unrest and protests driven by economic grievances and public dissatisfaction with living conditions.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Raja stated that expressing demands through lawful and peaceful means is the legitimate right of citizens. However, he noted that developments on the ground indicate that some protests have been diverted from their original path, escalating into unrest shaped by hidden agendas and foreign interference. He emphasized that respect for fundamental rights and freedoms, particularly freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly, is consistently upheld by Iran as enshrined in its constitution and domestic laws.
Raja highlighted the Iranian government’s efforts, including economic support measures, strengthened social welfare mechanisms, expanded employment opportunities, and targeted reforms to ease economic pressures and restore calm. He stressed the importance of dialogue and engagement with the public, asserting that lasting stability can only be achieved through constructive communication and responsible policy.
The ambassador condemned recent interventions by certain hostile states and organized terrorist groups, which have resulted in increased insecurity, violent clashes, unrest, and loss of lives. He pointed out that evidence indicated these actions were coordinated within Iranian territory, aiming to transform peaceful protests into violence and instability, posing direct threats to public safety and social order.
Raja further stated that such threats and interventions are absolutely prohibited under international law, regardless of any political pretext or verbal framing. He emphasized that any attempt to provoke, encourage, or legitimize internal unrest as a pretext for external pressure or military intervention constitutes a blatant violation of Iran’s sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity.
He noted that the Iranian nation has responded decisively, demonstrating unity, resilience, and a strong commitment to preserving national security and stability. He also attributed the hostile policies, threats, and interventionist actions of the United States and the Zionist regime as significant factors in attempts to destabilize Iran’s internal environment.
Raja concluded by stating that the Islamic Republic of Iran maintains that protecting citizens’ rights and freedom while safeguarding public order and national security are inseparable principles. Supporting peaceful expression, addressing economic and social concerns, promoting dialogue, and confronting terrorism and foreign interference are part of Iran’s balanced approach toward stability, social justice, and sustainable development. He reaffirmed Iran’s firm commitment to these principles and its determination to continue defending them.