Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has condemned the reported assault on a supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a political event in Delta State, describing the incident as a threat to democratic values.
Atiku said no Nigerian should face violence for expressing political opinions, regardless of party affiliation or ideological differences.
The former vice president was responding to reports that Tempo Mudi, identified as a Protocol Officer to the Delta State Governor, was allegedly attacked by a group of youths while campaigning for President Tinubu’s re-election.
The incident reportedly occurred at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Centre in Effurun, Delta State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said political disagreements should never result in violence.
“No matter how unpopular a political opinion may be, no Nigerian deserves to be assaulted for expressing it.”
He added that democracy depends on open debate, persuasion, and the freedom of citizens to hold differing political views.
“Democracy thrives on persuasion, debate and the freedom to hold divergent views—not intimidation, violence or mob action,” he said.
While condemning the attack, Atiku also criticized the Tinubu administration, arguing that many Nigerians are frustrated by the country’s economic challenges.
According to him, rising inflation, unemployment, declining purchasing power, and insecurity have fueled public dissatisfaction.
“President Tinubu’s record has already rendered its own verdict. Nigerians know that this administration has been an abysmal failure.”
He further accused the government of economic mismanagement, worsening poverty, insecurity, and failing to fulfill its promises.
Despite acknowledging widespread public anger, Atiku insisted that citizens must pursue change through democratic means rather than physical confrontation.
“Our greatest weapon against bad governance is not our fists but our votes.”
He urged Nigerians to use their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to hold leaders accountable during elections instead of resorting to violence.
The former vice president appealed to youths in Delta State and across the country to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to democratic principles.
He said the opposition should distinguish itself through tolerance, civility, and respect for the rights of political opponents.
“The Nigeria we seek to build is one where ideas compete freely, citizens are safe to express their opinions, and governments are changed by ballots—not by brutality.”
Atiku’s statement comes as political activities continue to intensify ahead of future elections, with renewed attention on the need for peaceful political engagement.
While he used the opportunity to criticize the Tinubu administration’s performance, the former vice president emphasized that political grievances should be addressed through the electoral process rather than violence, calling on Nigerians to safeguard democratic values through peaceful participation….See More