Atiku Abubakar, a former vice president, has demanded a probe into the alleged brutality of security forces during the nationwide demonstrations.
The protests, which began on August 1, were initially peaceful, with young Nigerians expressing their discontent with the country’s economic challenges.
However, the situation took a turn for the worse, with reports of looting and vandalism of public and private properties by miscreants.
At least 14 lives were lost on August 2, with videos showing police officers mistreating journalists.
In a recent development, the Nigerian Army announced the detention of a soldier involved in the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old protester in Zaria.
According to the army spokesperson, the soldier was part of a team enforcing a curfew in the Samaru area when they came under attack by hoodlums.
The soldier allegedly fired a warning shot to disperse the crowd, but unfortunately, the shot claimed the life of the young protester.
News About Nigeria reports that Atiku has also strongly condemned the use of excessive force against peaceful protesters, stressing the need for restraint.
He has, however, commended the army for taking responsibility for the soldier’s actions 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 authorised. 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.”
