In a sharp rebuke, the presidency has called out former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar for his comments on the ongoing nationwide protests against economic hardship. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, issued a statement on Tuesday night, urging Atiku to rise above personal sentiments and consider the stability of Nigeria as a priority.
The presidency expressed disappointment in Atiku’s recent tweet, where he cautioned security agencies against using lethal force on looters and arsonists. Onanuga criticized Atiku for failing to distinguish between peaceful protesters and those engaging in violent acts, accusing him of enabling further unrest by not condemning the escalating violence in several states, including Kaduna, Kano, Plateau, and Jigawa.
Drawing a comparison to opposition figures in the United Kingdom, who have rallied behind their government to condemn ongoing riots, Onanuga suggested that Atiku should adopt a similar approach. He cited the example of former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who supported government efforts to maintain order during civil disturbances, and urged Atiku to do the same in Nigeria.
The presidency emphasized that while the right to protest is enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, it is not an absolute right and can be restricted to maintain public peace and safety. The statement commended the Nigerian security forces for their restraint and professionalism in managing the protests, despite extreme provocation.
Onanuga further criticized Atiku’s reliance on constitutional provisions to justify what the presidency now views as riots, warning that such sentiments could lead to greater instability. The statement concluded by urging Atiku to put the nation’s stability above political gains, arguing that his recent actions were unbecoming of a former vice-president and could exacerbate tensions in the country.