Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has come under fire from a group operating under the name Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI) for his recent demand for the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
This criticism comes after the call for a protest demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was supported by former vice president Atiku Abubakar.
The former Vice president described Kanu’s ongoing incarceration as “a sore on Nigeria’s conscience.”
The group claimed that the call might convey the wrong message about accountability and erode trust in the rule of law.
The group urged Atiku to reevaluate his remarks in the sake of national cohesiveness, claiming that his stance on the matter was at odds with his long-standing support for justice and national unity.
Dr. Tunji Bamidele, the group’s director of strategic communication, signed the statement on Thursday.
DWI expressed fear that Atiku’s stance could be misunderstood as promoting disdain for the justice system.
“Nnamdi Kanu is currently facing serious charges, including terrorism and treasonable felony, which involve allegations of incitement to violence and the destruction of public and private property. These are matters before the court, and the legal process should be allowed to run its course.
“By calling for Kanu’s unconditional release, there is a risk of undermining the judicial process and the efforts of those working to maintain peace and security,” it said.
