Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called on the police and other security agencies to cease the use of lethal force against protesters demanding good governance in Nigeria.

The protests, which began as a peaceful 10-day nationwide demonstration, escalated after miscreants hijacked the movement in several states, leading to the destruction and looting of properties.

On Saturday, police and security forces employed tear gas and live bullets to disperse peaceful protesters in various locations, including the nation’s capital, Abuja. According to Amnesty International, at least 13 people have been killed during the protests, mostly at the hands of security agencies. However, the police have reported that seven people have died during the protests, none due to security operatives.

Atiku Abubakar, in a statement on Saturday, criticized the conduct of the security agencies, questioning their professionalism in handling the demonstrations. He expressed deep concern, stating, “I vehemently condemn the heinous act of using live ammunition on citizens peacefully protesting against bad governance, as witnessed today in Kano and Abuja. This is utterly intolerable and reminiscent of the dark days of military dictatorship.”

He reminded the government and security agencies of their duty to ensure a safe environment for citizens to exercise their right to protest without fear. Abubakar emphasized that the use of force against innocent protesters only exacerbates tensions and turns peaceful demonstrations into chaos. He urged the international community, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, to monitor the situation in Nigeria and hold the country’s leadership and security apparatus accountable.

Furthermore, he encouraged protesters to continue exercising their right to peaceful protest while condemning any form of violence. He stressed the importance of isolating and prosecuting those engaging in looting and property destruction, as such actions undermine the legitimacy of the protests.

Atiku called on President Bola Tinubu to demonstrate leadership by addressing and implementing the demands of the Nigerian people, thus responding to their calls for good governance and change.