Nigerian Opposition Leader Condemns Use of Live Ammunition on Peaceful Protesters
Atiku Abubakar, the leader of Nigeria’s opposition party, has strongly condemned the use of live ammunition by security agents on peaceful protesters in the country. In a statement, Mr. Abubakar, a former vice president, urged the international community to closely monitor the situation and hold the Nigerian leadership and security apparatus accountable.
The protests, which took place in Kano and Abuja, were peaceful, with citizens expressing their discontent with bad governance. However, security forces responded with live ammunition, leaving many injured and causing widespread chaos. Mr. Abubakar described the incident as "heinous" and "utterly intolerable," reminiscent of the dark days of military dictatorship.
The opposition leader emphasized that the government and security agencies have a paramount duty to ensure a safe and secure environment where citizens can exercise their right to protest without fear. He called on the international community, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, to monitor the situation and hold those responsible accountable.
Mr. Abubakar also reaffirmed his counsel to protesters to continue exercising their right to peaceful protest and reject any form of violence. He urged those engaging in looting and destruction of public and private property to stop, as their actions undermine the legitimacy of the protests and play into the hands of those who oppose their right to protest.
Finally, Mr. Abubakar called on President Tinubu to demonstrate true leadership by immediately addressing and implementing the demands of the Nigerian people.
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