Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised the reported assaults on African Action Congress (AAC) presidential contender, Omoyele Sowore, and the ADC governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Manir Muhammad Dan’iya.
Naija News reports that Atiku expressed his displeasure in a statement published on his official X account on Saturday, describing the incidents as a disturbing development capable of undermining democratic principles.
He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of creating an environment in which opposition politicians and their followers face intimidation, harassment and physical attacks for exercising their political rights.
According to him, the incidents reflect an alleged pattern of hostility towards individuals and groups challenging the ruling party, warning that such developments could weaken political freedom and democratic participation in the country.
Atiku further criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, alleging that the growing reports of violence against opposition figures indicate a worrying direction for Nigeria’s democracy.
He maintained that political disagreements should not result in threats or physical confrontations, insisting that every political party must be allowed to operate without fear of intimidation.
The former vice president called on the Federal Government to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the reported attacks on Sowore and Dan’iya are thoroughly investigated.
He also urged President Tinubu to caution members and supporters of the APC against actions capable of threatening the safety of political opponents.
In his statement, Atiku said the attacks on the two opposition candidates were unacceptable and raised concerns about the treatment of individuals with different political affiliations.
He also alleged that political loyalists were being used to intimidate opposition members while the president was away on a spiritual journey.
Atiku equally expressed concern over what he described as the unexplained disappearance of prominent social media personalities, arguing that such developments could contribute to an atmosphere of censorship and political repression.
He further disclosed that reports reaching him indicated that a local security organisation in Sokoto State had been targeting ADC supporters, including individuals allegedly assaulted for wearing clothing bearing the party’s identity.
The ADC presidential candidate insisted that the government must protect citizens’ constitutional rights and ensure that political activities are conducted without interference.
He warned against any effort to silence opposition voices ahead of the forthcoming general elections, stressing that Nigerians must have the freedom to support candidates and parties of their choice.
Atiku added that his camp would oppose attempts to restrict political competition, maintaining that voters should be allowed to determine the country’s leadership through a credible electoral process.
