EndHunger protests live ammunition saga: Atiku blasts police

Former presidential candidate under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has lambasted security agencies for using live ammunition on peaceful protesters at the ongoing #EndBadGovernance, EndHunger protest.

Reacting to the perceived high-handedness of security operatives in a statement on Saturday, August 3, 2024, Alhaji Abubakar said that it reminds one of the dark days of military dictatorship.

Atiku said: “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.

“It is crucial to remind the government and security agencies of their paramount duty to ensure a safe and secure environment where citizens can exercise their right to protest without fear.

“When security forces open fire on innocent protesters, they do nothing but exacerbate tensions, transforming peaceful demonstrations into chaos.

“I refuse to believe that inciting violence is the intention of our authorities.”

Atiku beckons on international organisations

The former presidential candidate, therefore, urged international bodies to pay close attention to the developments.

He asked them to ensure that citizens’ rights to association, assembly and protests are protected.

He stated further: “I urge the international community, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, to closely monitor the situation in Nigeria…

“…hold its leadership and security apparatus accountable.

“I reaffirm my counsel to protesters to steadfastly exercise their right to peaceful protest and reject any form of violence.

“Those engaging in looting and the destruction of public and private property must be isolated and prosecuted according to the law.

“By indulging in such acts, they undermine the legitimate protests and play into the hands of those who oppose their right to protest.”

Abubakar concluded by asking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate true leadership by immediately addressing and implementing the demands of the Nigerian people.

What is EndHunger protest?

The EndHunger protest is a recent demonstration in Nigeria.

Citizens are demanding that the government take immediate action to address the rising cost of living, food insecurity and hunger in the country.

Here are some key points about the EndHunger protest:

Reason for EndHunger protests

The EndHunger protest is a response to the increasing cost of food and living expenses.

Food expenses have left many Nigerians struggling to afford basic necessities.

Demands

Protesters are calling on the government to:

• Reduce the cost of food and living expenses
• Increase the minimum wage
• Provide economic support to vulnerable citizens
• Address corruption and mismanagement of resources

The protests have taken place in various cities across Nigeria, including Abuja, Lagos, and Kano.

It is organized by a coalition of civil society organizations, trade unions, and concerned citizens.

The government promised to address the concerns of the protesters, but so far, no concrete actions have been taken.

EndHunger protest highlights the growing discontent among Nigerians regarding the country’s economic situation.

It also highlights the need for urgent government action to address the welfare of citizens.

Who is Atiku Abubakar?

Atiku Abubakar is a Nigerian politician and businessman who has been a prominent figure in the country’s politics for several decades.

He was born on November 25, 1946, in Adamawa State, Nigeria.

Here are some key facts about Atiku Abubakar:

1. Atiku served as Vice President of Nigeria from 1999 to 2007 under President Olusegun Obasanjo.
2. He has contested for the presidency of Nigeria several times, including in 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2019.
3. Atiku is a successful businessman with interests in various sectors, including oil and gas, agriculture, and education.
4. He founded the American University of Nigeria in 2005, which is located in Yola, Adamawa State.
5. He is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare.
6. Abubakar has been a member of various political parties, including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Action Congress (AC), and All Progressives Congress (APC).
7. He is currently a member of the PDP and has expressed interest in contesting for the presidency again in 2027.

He is widely recognized as one of the most influential and successful politicians in Nigeria, with a long history of public service and business acumen.

Atiku wants Tinubu’s Government to be held accountable for any death sustained during the EndHunger protests.

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