Presidency Responds to Atiku Abubakar’s Warning to Security Chiefs

In a controversial move, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar issued a tweet warning security agencies against using lethal force on #EndBadGovernance protesters. The presidency swiftly responded, criticizing Atiku for allegedly supporting lawlessness and failing to address the true culprits of recent unrest.

The presidency emphasized that Atiku’s focus should be on the looting mobs in Kaduna, Kano, Plateau, and Jigawa states, who hijacked initially peaceful protests. “As a statesman, his warning ought to be to the looting mob, not to the security agencies,” a statement from the presidency read.

Despite facing extreme provocation, security forces have acted with professionalism and restraint, according to the presidency. They underscored that while Section 40 of the constitution supports peaceful assembly, Section 45 allows these rights to be restricted in the interest of public peace and safety. The Service Chiefs reiterated their commitment to upholding citizens’ rights to protest while also fulfilling their duty to maintain order.

The presidency accused Atiku of enabling destructive protests and warned that his tweet condoning the destruction of property was unbecoming of a former vice president. The statement urged Atiku to prioritize the nation’s stability over any personal political gains.

In an appeal for unity, the presidency highlighted the example of opposition figures in the UK, such as Rishi Sunak, who have condemned ongoing riots and called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible. The presidency encouraged Atiku to adopt a similar stance in the interest of national stability.