Sundiata Post – Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the use of live ammunition on #EndBadGovernance protesters in Kano and Abuja on Saturday, describing it as a “heinous act”.
It was gathered that some masked men fired at protesters and journalists inside the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja, as many protesters scampered for safety.
In a statement he personally signed, the 2023 presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said shooting at peaceful protesters was “utterly intolerable and reminiscent of the dark days of military dictatorship”.
“It is crucial to remind the government and security agencies of their paramount duty to ensure a safe and secure environment where citizens can exercise their right to protest without fear.
“When security forces open fire on innocent protesters, they do nothing but exacerbate tensions, transforming peaceful demonstrations into chaos. I refuse to believe that inciting violence is the intention of our authorities,” the Waziri of Adamawa said.
Atiku urged the international community, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, to closely monitor the situation in Nigeria and hold its leadership and security apparatus accountable.
“I reaffirm my counsel to protesters to steadfastly exercise their right to peaceful protest and reject any form of violence.
“Those engaging in looting and the destruction of public and private property must be isolated and prosecuted according to the law.
“By indulging in such acts, they undermine the legitimate protests and play into the hands of those who oppose their right to protest.
“President Tinubu must demonstrate true leadership by immediately addressing and implementing the demands of the Nigerian people,” the former vice president added.
