Nigerian Bitcoiner Sues Government for the Right to Own, Acquire, and Trade Bitcoin

• Otudor announced legal action against multiple Nigerian government and regulatory bodies, including the president, minister of finance, attorney general, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigerian Police Force, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
• Otudor argues that "the ongoing targeting of Nigerians who own and use cryptocurrencies is a clear violation of their fundamental human rights. Bitcoin and other digital assets are vital tools for protecting savings from inflation and enabling international transactions, particularly in light of naira devaluation and foreign exchange shortages."

"It is our submission that the rights to acquire Bitcoin and other digital assets have been severely infringed on, as the Federal Republic of Nigeria and its agencies have forced telecom companies to prevent and restrict innocent Nigerian citizens from acquiring, holding and accessing these assets," Otudor said.

The lawsuit seeks the following remedies:

• Immediate removal of the block on all crypto exchange online platforms, ensuring unrestricted access for all Nigerians.
• A declaration that the right of every bitcoin, USDT and other cryptocurrency holder be protected and guaranteed.
• A declaration that the infringement, victimization, and human rights violations of those who own, use and trade bitcoin all USDT, and other crypto in Nigeria is unlawful, unconstitutional and illegal.
• Establishment of regulations for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency assets within the Nigerian financial ecosystem, recognizing their distinct categories and regulating Bitcoin as a commodity.

"This legal action represents a peaceful protest for freedom and financial inclusion. As a nation founded on human rights, it is our responsibility to ensure that the rights of Bitcoin, USDT, and other digital asset users and holders are protected and guaranteed," he added.

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