Former Nigerian Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has condemned the use of live ammunition by security agents on protesters in Abuja and Kano on Saturday.
Reports circulated that masked security personnel dispersed protesters by firing bullets at protesters and journalists inside the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja.
Meanwhile, in a statement signed by the former vice president, he described the incident as “heinous”, stressing that such actions were highly “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 2023 presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said.
He further charged the international community to observe and monitor the situation closely, reiterating his support for peaceful protests.
“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”. He said.
saharandaily