The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has condemned the alleged use of live ammunition on #EndBadGovernance protesters.
Nigerians are experiencing economic difficulties, making it hard for many to afford basic needs.
In response, some youths initiated protests on Thursday, continuing through Friday and Saturday in Abuja, Lagos, Kaduna, Kano, Rivers, and other regions, calling for an end to hunger and poor governance in Nigeria.
On Saturday, masked men allegedly fired at protesters and journalists inside the Mashood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.
In a statement on Saturday, Atiku responded by describing the incident as intolerable and reminiscent of the oppressive era of military dictatorship.
He stated, “I vehemently condemn the heinous act of using live ammunition on 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 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.”
The former Vice President called on President Tinubu to show genuine leadership by promptly addressing and fulfilling the demands of the Nigerian people.
He said, “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.”
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