Atiku condemns attack on Tinubu supporter in Delta

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly condemned the assault of a supporter of President Bola Tinubu during a political event in Delta State, labeling the attack as a violation of democratic principles.

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No matter how unpopular a political opinion may be, no Nigerian deserves to be assaulted for expressing it.

Mr. Tempo Mudi, reportedly a Protocol Officer to the Delta State Governor, was allegedly attacked by youths while campaigning for President Tinubu's re-election. Reacting to the incident, Abubakar, through a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, emphasized that no Nigerian should face violence for expressing political views.

"Democracy thrives on persuasion, debate and the freedom to hold divergent views, not intimidation, violence or mob action," Abubakar stated. He acknowledged widespread public frustration with the nation's economic challenges, including hardship, inflation, and unemployment, but stressed that such grievances must be addressed through constitutional means, not physical confrontation.

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Democracy thrives on persuasion, debate and the freedom to hold divergent views, not intimidation, violence or mob action.

Abubakar criticized the current administration's economic policies, calling it an "abysmal failure" marked by mismanagement, poverty, and broken promises. However, he cautioned against resorting to violence, asserting, "We must not become what we seek to replace." He advised Nigerians to utilize the Permanent Voter Card as their most powerful tool for democratic change, urging them to reject underperforming leaders at the ballot box.

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President Tinubu’s record has already rendered its own verdict. Nigerians know that this administration has been an abysmal failure.

The former Vice President appealed to the youth in Delta State and nationwide to remain peaceful and committed to democratic processes. He stressed that the opposition should distinguish itself through tolerance and respect for all citizens' rights, including those of political opponents. Abubakar envisioned a Nigeria where ideas compete freely and citizens can express opinions safely.

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But no matter how justified the public anger may be, violence is not, and can never be, the route to national redemption. We must not become what we seek to replace.