Former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar condemned the use of live ammunition by security forces against citizens peacefully protesting during the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations in Kano and Abuja on Saturday.
The protests aimed to demand better governance and accountability but descended into chaos following reports of security personnel firing upon the demonstrators.
Expressing his dismay, Abubakar stated, “When security forces open fire on innocent protesters, they exacerbate tensions, turning peaceful demonstrations into turmoil.”
He emphasized that such actions undermine citizens’ fundamental right to express their grievances and seek redress from the government.
“I vehemently condemn the appalling act of using live ammunition against citizens peacefully protesting against bad governance, as witnessed today in Kano and Abuja. This is utterly intolerable and reminiscent of the dark days of military dictatorship.
“It is vital to remind the government and security agencies of their primary responsibility to ensure a safe environment where citizens can exercise their right to protest without fear.”
“When security forces fire on innocent protesters, they do nothing but escalate tensions and transform peaceful demonstrations into chaos. I refuse to believe that inciting violence is the intention of our authorities.”
He urged the international community, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, to closely monitor the situation in Nigeria and hold its leaders and security forces accountable.
“I reaffirm my counsel to protesters to diligently exercise their right to peaceful protest and reject any form of violence.”
The former presidential candidate insisted that those engaging in looting and vandalism should be identified and prosecuted according to the law.
“By participating in such acts, they undermine legitimate protests and play into the hands of those who oppose their right to demonstrate.”
He added that President Tinubu must exhibit true leadership by swiftly addressing and implementing the demands of the Nigerian people.
