Stop this Reign of Impunity: Atiku Abubakar Condemns Nigeria Police for Rights Violations

In a scathing critique of the Nigeria Police Force, Atiku Abubakar, former Vice-President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has vehemently criticized the flagrant disregard for citizens’ rights and the rule of law.

Atiku’s condemnation comes in response to the recent arrest and unlawful transportation of Yusuf Sheriff Banki from Abuja to Maiduguri, Borno State, despite a standing court order to the contrary.

Justice M. A. Madugu of the Bwari Judicial Division had issued an order on June 13, 2024, explicitly prohibiting the Inspector General of Police, the Assistant Inspector General of Police Zone 15, and the Commissioner of Police FCT from arresting, intimidating, harassing, or threatening Yusuf Sheriff Banki and his family members pending the resolution of a court case.

Despite this legal injunction, the Nigeria Police proceeded with the arrest, prompting Atiku to denounce the actions as reminiscent of oppressive military rule, where civil liberties were routinely trampled without regard for legal processes.

Atiku condemned the police for their impunity and called for the immediate release of Yusuf Sheriff Banki, emphasizing that such actions undermine the fabric of law and order in Nigeria.

He also raised concerns over the increasing trend of journalists being targeted under the pretext of cybersecurity laws, which he argued stifles press freedom and accountability.