Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has warned that nothing must happen to Labour Party leader Peter Obi and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, insisting that the safety of opposition figures is a litmus test for Nigeria’s democracy.
Atiku, in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, said any form of intimidation or persecution of opposition leaders would undermine democratic values and tarnish the country’s image.
“The true test of democracy is not how those in power exercise authority, but how safely those outside government can enjoy their constitutional rights,” he said.
The former Vice President criticised what he described as the Presidency’s response to recent comments by Peter Obi through personal attacks and derogatory remarks, saying democratic governments should answer criticism with facts and maturity rather than insults.
According to him, political disagreement should never be treated as hostility or a crime.
Atiku urged the Federal Government to guarantee the safety of all political actors irrespective of party affiliation, warning that democracy thrives only when citizens can freely express opposing views without fear.
He also called on the government to channel its energy towards tackling Nigeria’s worsening security and economic challenges instead of engaging in political battles.
The ADC chieftain lamented the continued wave of kidnappings, killings and insecurity across the country, saying the rescue of abducted schoolchildren, teachers and other victims should be a top priority.
He equally renewed his call for the immediate release of Nasir El-Rufai, insisting that every Nigerian is entitled to due process, equal protection under the law and the presumption of innocence.
Atiku warned against what he described as selective justice, stressing that the credibility of Nigeria’s legal system depends on fairness, transparency and strict adherence to constitutional principles.
He further urged the Federal Government to address growing public concerns over insecurity, poverty, hunger and corruption through responsible governance rather than political distractions.
According to him, history will judge leaders by how well they protect lives, uphold justice and strengthen democratic institutions—not by how fiercely they confront political opponents.
