Atiku Abubakar, former vice president, has issued a stern warning to Nigerian military chiefs cautioning them against using lethal force on civilian protesters.
In a statement posted on X, the Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate in the 2019 and 2023 elections, reminded the senior officers that they will answer for their deeds after their service years.
His words: ”I wish to convey a stern caution to the distinguished service chiefs and military commanders of Nigeria’s armed forces that those who authorise the use of lethal force against peaceful civilian protesters will be held responsible for committing crimes against humanity, even in the years following their retirement from service.
”The constitutional right to engage in protest is firmly established within our supreme law and reinforced by the judiciary.
”It is the solemn duty of the government and security agencies to ensure a safe and protected environment for individuals exercising their right to peaceful protest.”