Although he condemned the wanton destruction of property and looting spree in some states, former Vice President and Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the 2023 election, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has applauded the ongoing #ENDBADGOVERNANCE nationwide protests which enter its third day today.
In a statement issued on Friday, Atiku said the “demonstrations have opened a vital channel for the public to express disapproval of government policies, furthering the essential conversation about good governance in our nation.”
He, however, condemned the killings and urged the security agencies to be more professional in their conduct during the protests and carry out their duties within the ambit of the law. He also urged the protesters to be orderly and “maintain their peaceful stance”.
Below is the full text of the press statement:
Released By Atiku Media Office
Abuja
2nd August, 2024.
PRESS RELEASE
The commencement of public protests across the country yesterday is noteworthy. These demonstrations have opened a vital channel for the public to express disapproval of government policies, furthering the essential conversation about good governance in our nation.
For the most part, protesters have conducted themselves with admirable peace and must be commended for their restraint and dedication. However, in some isolated instances, there have been reports of violence, leading to regrettable clashes and brutalities by the police.
I urge the protesters to maintain their peaceful stance and call 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.
I also call on the police to engage more professionally in managing these protests. The needless killing of innocent citizens by security agencies is unacceptable. 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.
Security agencies are encouraged to identify and isolate the minority elements who are resorting to violence and looting, ensuring that the actions of a few do not tarnish the majority of peaceful protesters.
To the government, I admonish you to heed the voices of the people and come down from your high horses. It is time to demonstrate a sincere commitment to addressing the demands of the protesters. The nation cannot afford further days of unrest; let this be the moment where leadership listens and acts with integrity and urgency.
