Atiku Urges Thorough Investigation Into Alleged Killing Of Protesters In Adamawa
By Sunday Etuka
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for investigation into the alleged killing of protesters by soldiers of the 23rd Brigade, Nigerian Army, Yola.
This is even as he called on both the Federal and State Governments to intervene in the ongoing communal clashes between the Bachama and Tsobo communities in the state, to protect human life, and restore peace and order to the affected communities.
He added that “the bloodshed, destruction, and anguish being visited upon innocent citizens are unacceptable and must not be allowed to continue for one more hour.”
Atiku in a post on his X handle on Wednesday said although the Army has reportedly denied involvement, the conflicting accounts of the shooting of protesters demand nothing less than a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation. Saying: “The claims by locals and the counterclaims by the military must not be brushed aside.”
The former VP noted that “Nigeria deserves answers, and the victims deserve justice. The Federal and State Governments must pursue the truth to its very end. Whoever is responsible for these killings, civilian or military, must be held fully accountable under the law.”
He said at a time when the world is rallying to end gender-based violence, the brutal killing of women, or any citizen for that matter, in cold blood cannot be tolerated or excused.
“My heart goes out to the families who have lost loved ones, and to all who have been scarred by this senseless violence. May God comfort them and grant solace in this dark hour. I stand in full solidarity with the Hama Bachama, His Royal Majesty Dr. Daniel Isma’ila Shaga, and the entire Bachama Kingdom over this tragic situation,” Atiku said.
He appealed to the warring communities to pull back from the brink and choose peace. Noting that only dialogue, mutual respect, and unity could lead the communities out of the crisis.
