By Trendsetter Tribune 
A human rights group challenges Finland’s president to apply the same standards of condemnation used against Iran to Nigeria, citing repression, police brutality, and civil liberties violations.
Human rights advocacy often hinges on credibility. When global leaders condemn abuses in one country but remain silent on others, activists argue that moral authority is weakened. A new public message circulating online is reigniting debate over whether Western leaders apply human rights principles consistently across regions.
What Prompted the Statement
On January 11, Africa World Media TV, a media and advocacy platform, published an open message addressed to Finnish President Alex Stubb, urging him to take a consistent stance on human rights violations worldwide — including in Nigeria.
The message referenced President Stubb’s recent remarks condemning the Iranian government’s handling of domestic protests, where he urged authorities to stop using violence, respect freedom of expression, and release detained demonstrators.
Focus on Nigeria
The statement argues that similar principles should apply to Nigeria, where activists say millions have faced repression, police brutality, and violations of fundamental freedoms over the years.
According to the message, Nigeria’s record on civil liberties — including allegations of excessive force by security agencies and suppression of peaceful protest — deserves the same level of scrutiny and public condemnation often directed at governments such as Iran’s.
“Human Rights Are Universal”
At the core of the message is a call for consistency.
“These principles are universal,” the statement reads, stressing that freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and protection from state violence should not depend on geopolitical interests or alliances.
The authors argue that selective outrage undermines international human rights advocacy and fuels accusations of double standards in global diplomacy.
Broader Implications
The message reflects a growing frustration among activists and media organizations who believe Western leaders are quicker to criticize adversaries than allies when it comes to human rights abuses.
Such criticism has become more common in recent years as social media platforms allow advocacy groups to directly challenge world leaders in public forums, bypassing traditional diplomatic channels.
No Response Yet
As of publication, President Stubb has not publicly responded to the message. There has been no indication whether Finnish officials plan to address the concerns raised regarding Nigeria.
Conclusion
The statement from Africa World Media TV highlights a broader and ongoing debate: whether global leaders can credibly champion human rights without applying the same standards everywhere. As international attention increasingly turns toward accountability and transparency, calls for moral consistency are likely to grow louder
Dear President of Finland, @alexstubb,
— AFRICA WORLD MEDIA TV (@mats56455) January 11, 2026
It is important to speak consistently about oppression and human rights across the world. This is especially relevant when engaging with governments such as Nigeria 🇳🇬, where millions have faced repression, police brutality, and violations… pic.twitter.com/0AuSidk7x7