- Sadly, at least 14 people lost their lives on August 2, with disturbing videos showing police officers mishandling journalists.
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called for a detailed examination of the alleged human rights abuses by security forces during the recent nationwide protests.
The protests, which started on August 1, were initially peaceful, with young Nigerians expressing their frustration with the country’s economic situation.
However, the situation escalated, with reports of looting and destruction of public and private properties by unruly individuals.
In a recent development, the Nigerian Army announced that a soldier involved in the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old protester in Zaria has been detained.
According to the army spokesperson, the soldier was part of a team enforcing a curfew in the Samaru area when they were attacked by hoodlums.
The soldier allegedly fired a warning shot to disperse the crowd, but tragically, the shot killed the young protester.
Atiku Abubakar has strongly denounced the use of lethal force against peaceful protesters, emphasizing the need for restraint and respect for human rights.
He has, however, praised the army for holding the soldier accountable for the protester’s death and ensuring accountability.
The former vice-president’s call for a thorough investigation is a step towards ensuring justice and preventing future incidents.
“I am heartened by the acknowledgement made by the Nigerian Army regarding the tragic incident that resulted in the loss of a young protester’s life. I also urge for thorough investigations into other instances of violence perpetrated by the military, police, and other security agencies during these protests, in the spirit of accountability,” he wrote on X.
” The decision to detain the soldier responsible for this unfortunate incident marks a commendable step towards accountability and preserving the rule of law.
“I have consistently advised the service chiefs and military commanders that the use of lethal force against peaceful protesters must not be authorized.
“Upholding the principle of accountability is paramount, and the actions taken by the Nigerian Army in apprehending and, hopefully, prosecuting the soldier responsible for this incident align with this fundamental principle.
“Even amidst conflicts, it is crucial to adhere to rules of engagement. Soldiers should not be deployed to suppress civil rights protests. -AA.”