Atiku Condemns ‘Cruel’ Teargas Response to Benue Protesters Over Killings

Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has vehemently condemned the use of teargas to disperse women and youth protesting the incessant killings in Benue State, describing the action as “cruel and undemocratic.”

Atiku’s strong reaction came in response to reports from Makurdi, the Benue State capital, where unarmed women and youth, demonstrating against the continuous massacres by suspected herdsmen, were allegedly met with teargas by security operatives. The dispersal reportedly led to a stampede, resulting in several injuries among the peaceful protesters.

In a statement, Atiku expressed dismay at the development, particularly in light of what he termed the current administration’s past assurances regarding the right to peaceful assembly. He noted that the Tinubu administration had previously emphasized that protests would not be met with excessive force, citing the example of initial protests that occurred without such crackdowns.

“The teargassing of women and youth protesting against the continuous killings in Benue State is cruel and undemocratic,” Atiku stated. “The right to peaceful protest is a fundamental aspect of democracy.”

He lamented the ongoing insecurity and loss of lives in Benue and other parts of the country, urging the Federal Government to prioritize its constitutional duty of protecting lives and property. Atiku stressed the importance of ensuring that citizens can express their grievances without fear of intimidation or violence from state actors.

The incident in Makurdi underscores the deepening frustration among Benue residents who have endured persistent attacks on their communities, leading to extensive loss of life, displacement, and destruction of livelihoods. These communities have repeatedly called for more decisive action from both federal and state governments to end the violence.

Atiku’s condemnation adds a significant political voice to the calls for accountability and adherence to democratic principles in handling civil unrest, especially when citizens are protesting against insecurity. He reiterated the need for immediate and concrete steps to apprehend the perpetrators of the killings and bring them to justice, thereby restoring peace and confidence in the affected areas.