Atiku Condemns Killing Of Teenage Protester By Soldier, Urges Investigation

By Ayodele Oni

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has reacted to the killing, by a soldier, of a 16-year old boy in Zaria, Kaduna state.

The Military had admitted the killing of the teenage by one of its officers while attempting to fire a shot to scare protesters. The Chief of Army Staff has, also,  ordered an investigation into the sad incident, as well as the arrest and detention of the soldier.

Atiku, in his X handle, maintained that it was even wrong in the first place to deploy the military to quell civil protest against hardship in the country.

He pointed out that “Even amidst conflicts, it is crucial to adhere to rules of engagement. Soldiers should not be deployed to suppress civil rights protests.

He however expressed satisfaction with the step taken by the Chief of Army Staff, (CAOS) that ordered the arrest of the trigger happy soldier.

“I am heartened by the acknowledgement made by the Nigerian Army regarding the tragic incident that resulted in the loss of a young protester’s life.

“I also urge for thorough investigations into other instances of violence perpetrated by the military, police, and other security agencies during these protests, in the spirit of accountability.

“The decision to detain the soldier responsible for this unfortunate incident marks a commendable step towards accountability and preserving the rule of law.

“I have consistently advised the service chiefs and military commanders that the use of lethal force against peaceful protesters must not be authorized.

“Upholding the principle of accountability is paramount, and the actions taken by the Nigerian Army in apprehending and, hopefully, prosecuting the soldier responsible for this incident align with this fundamental principle.”