Atiku Abubakar condemns use of live ammunition on peaceful protesters

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly condemned the use of live ammunition against citizens protesting peacefully against bad governance, as seen in recent incidents in Kano and Abuja. Atiku described the use of force as “a heinous act” and “utterly intolerable,” drawing parallels with the oppressive days of military dictatorship.

In a statement posted on his X handle on Saturday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the last election called for an environment where citizens can protest safely and without fear. He also urged the international community, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, to closely monitor the situation in Nigeria and hold the country’s leadership and security forces accountable.

Atiku stated:

“I vehemently condemn the heinous act of using live ammunition on citizens peacefully protesting against bad governance, as witnessed in Kano and Abuja. This is 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.

“I urge 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.”