Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Government, through its spokesman Bayo Onanuga, has urged former Vice President Abubakar Atiku to rise above sentiment and adopt a more constructive stance on matters concerning protests in the country. In a statement released on Monday, Onanuga called on Atiku to take a cue from the United Kingdom, where opposition leader Rishi Sunak is advocating for peace and dialogue among protesters in the interest of national stability.
Onanuga emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in Nigeria, especially in light of recent unrest. He highlighted that the government’s approach to handling dissent is guided by the need to protect the country’s unity and ensure the safety of all citizens.
The former Vice President should look at how political leaders in other democracies, such as the UK, handle protests. Opposition leader Rishi Sunak has been urging protesters to embrace peace and dialogue rather than resorting to disruptive actions. This approach not only promotes stability but also fosters an environment where grievances can be addressed constructively,” Onanuga stated.
The government’s call for Atiku to adopt a more responsible and conciliatory approach comes amid heightened tensions and protests in various parts of Nigeria. Onanuga reiterated the government’s commitment to listening to the concerns of the people while maintaining that dialogue and peaceful negotiations are the most effective ways to resolve conflicts.
Leaders have a responsibility to guide their followers towards peaceful resolutions. By encouraging protests that can lead to chaos, Atiku is not serving the best interests of the nation. We urge him to reconsider his stance and join us in promoting peace and stability for the betterment of Nigeria,” Onanuga added.
The spokesman’s remarks align with the Federal Government’s broader strategy to address civil unrest through engagement and dialogue, while ensuring that the rule of law is upheld. The government remains open to discussions with all stakeholders to find sustainable solutions to the nation’s challenges.
As Nigeria continues to navigate complex social and economic issues, the government calls on all political leaders and citizens to work together in fostering a peaceful and stable environment for progress and development.