Atiku Abubakar, the former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 election, issued a significant statement on his X handle regarding the public protests that commenced across Nigeria yesterday.
He emphasized the importance of these demonstrations, noting that they have created a crucial platform for citizens to voice their dissatisfaction with government policies and advance the conversation about good governance in the nation.
Abubakar commended the majority of protesters for their peaceful conduct, highlighting their restraint and dedication to the cause. “For the most part, protesters have conducted themselves with admirable peace and must be commended for their restraint and dedication,” he stated. However, he also acknowledged isolated instances of violence, which have led to unfortunate clashes and police brutality.
In his message, Abubakar urged protesters to continue their peaceful stance and called on more Nigerians to show solidarity and support for the #EndBadGovernance peaceful protest. “This is a pivotal moment for our collective voice to be heard, and it must be done with dignity and respect for the law,” he added.
Addressing the actions of the police, Abubakar called for more professional conduct in managing the protests. He condemned the unnecessary killing of innocent citizens by security agencies and urged the police to avoid molesting journalists covering the protests. “The police must refrain from the molestation of journalists who are merely reporting the protest. It is imperative that security agencies exercise restraint while enforcing law and order,” he insisted.
Abubakar encouraged security agencies to identify and isolate the minority who are engaging in violence and looting, ensuring that the actions of a few do not tarnish the reputation of the peaceful majority.
To the government, Abubakar issued a stern admonition, urging leaders to listen to the voices of the people and address the demands of the protesters sincerely. “The nation cannot afford further days of unrest; let this be the moment where leadership listens and acts with integrity and urgency,” he concluded.
Abubakar’s statement underscores the critical juncture at which Nigeria finds itself, calling for both peaceful protest and responsive governance to ensure a stable and just society.
