Atiku Abubakar Commends Peaceful Protests, Frowns Against Violence

Public protests began across Nigeria yesterday, providing a significant platform for citizens to express their discontent with current government policies. These demonstrations have sparked an essential dialogue about good governance in the country.

Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has lauded the protesters for their peaceful conduct. “For the most part, protesters have conducted themselves with admirable peace and must be commended for their restraint and dedication,” Abubakar stated. Nonetheless, he acknowledged reports of isolated incidents of violence, which have resulted in unfortunate clashes and police brutality.

Abubakar urged the demonstrators to continue their peaceful stance and called on more Nigerians to support the #EndBadGovernance 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 emphasized.

Addressing the police, Abubakar called for more professional conduct in managing the protests. He condemned the unnecessary killing of innocent citizens and the harassment of journalists by security forces. “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 remarked.

Abubakar also encouraged security agencies to isolate and address the minority who resort to violence and looting, ensuring that the actions of a few do not overshadow the peaceful majority.

In his message to the government, Abubakar urged leaders to listen to the people’s voices and show a genuine commitment to addressing the protesters’ demands. “The nation cannot afford further days of unrest; let this be the moment where leadership listens and acts with integrity and urgency,” he concluded.