Atiku Warns Against Harm to Peter Obi, Demands El-Rufai’s Release
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has cautioned that no harm should come to opposition leader Peter Obi, saying the protection of political opponents is a constitutional responsibility and a measure of the country’s democratic health.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku reacted to recent comments by Obi, who expressed fears about his safety and alleged that the Federal Government was deliberately frustrating his activities.
According to Atiku, any threat or intimidation against an opposition figure weakens democracy and undermines the constitutional rights of all Nigerians. He stressed that political leaders should be free to express their views without fear of persecution.
The former vice president also criticised the Presidency’s response to Obi’s concerns, arguing that democratic governments should address criticism with facts, transparency and responsible leadership rather than personal attacks.
Atiku maintained that the real challenges confronting Nigeria are insecurity, poverty, hunger, corruption and kidnapping, urging the Federal Government to focus its energy on solving these problems instead of engaging in political confrontations.
He further raised concerns over the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, insisting that every Nigerian is entitled to due process, equal protection under the law and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court.
Calling for transparency and accountability in governance, Atiku said public trust can only be strengthened when governments respond to legitimate concerns with openness rather than propaganda or insults.
He concluded by urging the Federal Government to ensure Peter Obi’s safety, release El-Rufai, intensify efforts to rescue Nigerians held by kidnappers, and prioritise the protection of lives and democratic values over political disagreements.
