In a recent statement, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, expressed his disagreement with former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s warning to security agencies about using force against looters and arsonists.
Onanuga criticized Atiku for cautioning security agencies against employing lethal measures on individuals posing as protesters but engaging in criminal activities.
He emphasized that Atiku should have directed his warning towards the looting groups in Kaduna, Kano, Plateau, and Jigawa states, who deviated from the peaceful nature of the protests.
Onanuga praised the security forces for their professionalism and restraint in dealing with the unruly behavior of some rioters during the demonstrations.
He expressed surprise at Atiku’s reliance on a specific section of the constitution to justify protests that have escalated into destructive riots in various areas of the country.
Quoting Section 45 of the constitution, Onanuga highlighted that rights to assembly and freedom of expression are not absolute and can be restricted in the interest of public safety and order.
He commended the Service Chiefs for acknowledging Nigerians’ right to protest while fulfilling their duty to protect the nation from violent disruptions.
Onanuga criticized Atiku for indirectly supporting the destructive protests and urged him to prioritize the nation’s stability over personal gain from the chaos on the streets.
He encouraged Atiku to follow the example of opposition leaders in the United Kingdom, who have united to condemn riots and advocate for the prosecution of those responsible for property destruction.
Onanuga concluded by stating that Atiku’s stance condoning the destruction of public and private property is unbecoming of a former vice president and called for a more nationalistic approach to address the current challenges.