The Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI) has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his recent call for the unconditional release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, the group described Atiku’s position as “reckless, insensitive, and politically motivated,” warning that such statements could undermine national security and the ongoing efforts to address separatist agitations in the South-East region.
DWI’s Executive Director, Dr. Emmanuel Adigwe, said the former Vice President’s comments were disappointing, especially coming from a statesman who once held the second-highest office in the country. He accused Atiku of playing politics with national unity and security issues.
“It is unfortunate that someone who aspires to lead Nigeria would make a statement capable of inflaming ethnic tensions and undermining the rule of law,” Adigwe stated. “Nnamdi Kanu is facing trial for serious charges bordering on treasonable felony. Calling for his unconditional release is an insult to the judiciary and a slap on the faces of security operatives who have sacrificed their lives to keep the country safe.”
The group maintained that Nigeria is a country governed by laws and that due process must be allowed to take its course. It urged political leaders to refrain from making public statements that could embolden separatist movements or jeopardize peace efforts in the South-East.
“Rather than politicize Kanu’s detention, leaders like Atiku should focus on promoting national dialogue and reconciliation that uphold justice and the rule of law,” the statement added.
The Democracy Watch Initiative also commended the federal government for maintaining restraint in handling the matter, calling for a fair and transparent judicial process.
Atiku had earlier called for Kanu’s release as part of efforts to promote national healing and address grievances in the South-East. However, DWI insisted that true peace can only be achieved through justice, accountability, and respect for the nation’s constitution.
