2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has cautioned the service chiefs and military commanders of Nigeria’s armed forces against “use of lethal force against peaceful civilian protesters.”
Recall that in some parts of northern Nigeria, the protest against hunger snowballed into violence with destruction of both public and private properties.
There have also been reports of shooting directly at the protesters by the security agents.
However, in a post via his X account, the former vice president warned that those who use lethal force on the protesters will be made to account for their action even if they retire from service.
Atiku maintained that it’s the duty of the security agencies to ensure the safety of the protesters.
The post reads;
“I wish to convey a stern caution to the distinguished service chiefs and military commanders of Nigeria’s armed forces that those who authorise the use of lethal force against peaceful civilian protesters will be held responsible for committing crimes against humanity, even in the years following their retirement from service.
“The constitutional right to engage in protest is firmly established within our supreme law and reinforced by the judiciary. It is the solemn duty of the government and security agencies to ensure a safe and protected environment for individuals exercising their right to peaceful protest.”
