Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, has condemned former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s warning to security agencies against using lethal force against looters and arsonists. Onanuga described Atiku’s statement as “absurd” and argued that he should have warned the looting mob instead.
Onanuga emphasized that the security forces have remained professional and restrained in the face of extreme provocation. He pointed out that Section 45 of the constitution allows for the restriction of rights to assembly and freedom of expression in the interest of public peace and safety.
The Presidential aide commended the Service Chiefs and security personnel for their patriotic duty to the country. He accused Atiku of enabling and supporting the destructive protests, and urged him to prioritize national stability over personal gain.
Onanuga also drew comparisons with opposition figures in the UK, who have condemned the ongoing riots and called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible. He encouraged Atiku to adopt a similar nationalistic approach.