Leader of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has condemned in strong term, disproportionate use of force on protesters across the nation.
Many cities across Nigeria on Friday witnessed youths’ protest calling on the Inspector General of Police to scrap the Special Anti-robbery Squad, SARS following reports of inhuman and killing of youths in Nigeria.
The former Vice President commended the tenacity of brave youths who stayed out on the streets all day and night to make their voices heard.
While declaring his support for the protesters, Atiku reiterated that protests are an essential part of any democracy as seen the world over, and should be seen as an opportunity for dialogue between the people and the leaders.
“I woke up to the peaceful #EndSARSProtests going on in Lagos and other cities in the country”, Atiku said.
“First, I would like to commend the tenacity of our brave youths who have stayed out on the streets all day and night to make their voices heard. I stand with you all”.
“Protests are an essential part of any democracy as we have seen the world over, and should be seen as an opportunity for dialogue between our people and our leaders”.
“Thus, it is essential that the fundamental rights of Nigerians to freedom of assembly and freedom of expression must be protected at all costs”.
“I strongly condemn any disproportionate use of force on protesters across the nation. I also call on the relevant authorities to ensure our youths are heard, and all incidents of excessive use of force by security agencies against protesters are investigated”.
