Protest: Law doesn’t grant right to steal, destroy public property – Group replies Atiku

The Eastern Movement for Sustenance of Democracy has faulted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s recent attack on Service Chiefs and military Commanders over alleged use of lethal force on protesters.

In a statement signed by its National Secretary, Barr. Aroh Kingsley Ikenna on Thursday, the group expressed reservations in what it alleged to be Atiku’s indirect show of support for violence and destruction of public and private properties.

Barr. Aroh, who condemned the hijacking of the planned peaceful protest by hoodlums, noted that the right to peaceful protest granted by the constitution does not in any way include the right to harass and steal from others or destroy others’ or public property.

“Also, the law does not give Atiku the right to threaten those who are constitutionally tasked to ensure security of Nigeria and Nigerians. Indeed, doing so, is tantamount to active support for the criminals.

“It is unbelievable that after all the violence and destruction in Kaduna, Kano and other places, someone is still saying it is a peaceful protest. In such a case, the person’s intent and desire are very ‘interesting’”.

He recalled that in some parts of Northern Nigeria, the protest turned violent with destruction of both public and private properties.

Some protesters reportedly attacked security agents who in some cases had to use tear gas and in a few instances lethal force to restore law and order.

In a post via his X account, the former Vice President warned that those who use lethal force on the protesters will be made to account for their actions even after they retire from service.

Atiku maintained that it’s the duty of the security agencies to ensure the safety of the protesters.

He said, “I wish to convey a stern caution to Service Chiefs and military commanders of Nigeria’s Armed Forces that those who authorize the use of lethal force against peaceful civilian protesters will be held responsible for committing crimes against humanity, even in the years following their retirement from service.

“The constitutional right to engage in protest is firmly established within our supreme law and reinforced by the judiciary. It’s the solemn duty of the government and security agencies to ensure a safe and protected environment for individuals exercising their rights to peaceful protest.’”

The group however, faulted Atiku for leaving out other citizens who were not participating in the protest.

Barr. Aroh said: “indeed, when protesters by their actions become a threat to other citizens, the government is equally obligated to protect the other citizens against the protesters. The maxim of my rights start, where yours stop is as true as it is enduring.”

He listed the basic rights in Chapter four of the Constitution to include Right to Life; Right to fair hearing; freedom of expression; Right to peaceful assembly and association; freedom of movement among others.

He further posited that the Constitution also provides for the guarantee of government’s fundamental right to derogate and restrict right to privacy, right to freedom of thought, conscience; right to freedom of expression and press; right to freedoms of peaceful assembly and association; and right to freedom of movement in a democratic society, “in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality, public health; or

“For the purpose of protecting the rights and freedom of other persons.

“Section 45(2) equally provided for the right of the government to restrict and derogate right to life and liberty during a period of emergency.”