Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged for a comprehensive investigation into the killings linked to the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests, which commenced on August 1. Atiku made this call on Wednesday via his X handle, following the Nigerian Army's admission of a soldier's involvement in the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old boy, Ismail Mohammed, in Zaria, Kaduna State.
Atiku described the incident as a "tragic loss of a young protester's life" and emphasized the need for authorities to investigate extrajudicial killings by security forces to strengthen Nigeria's democracy. He commended the Nigerian Army for acknowledging the incident and arresting the soldier responsible, stressing that upholding accountability is crucial.
The #EndBadGovernance protests, which began on August 1, have been marred by violence, resulting in over 20 deaths at the hands of security forces in the northern region. The protests aim to address bad governance, corruption, and lack of accountability, sparked by the high cost of living and economic policies implemented by President Bola Tinubu's administration.
Atiku's call for accountability comes after the Kaduna State Government imposed a 24-hour curfew on Kaduna and Zaria metropolis due to the escalating violence. The former presidential candidate has consistently advocated for the protection of peaceful protesters' rights and adherence to rules of engagement by security forces.