Atiku under fire over call for Nnamdi Kanu’s release

A group under the aegis of the Democracy Watch Initiative, DWI, has blasted 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.

It said the call could weaken confidence in the rule of law and send a wrong message on accountability.

The group alleged that Atiku’s position on the issue appeared inconsistent with his long-standing advocacy for justice and national unity, urging him to reconsider his comments in the interest of national cohesion.

The group said this in a statement signed by its Director of Strategic Communication, Dr Tunji Bamidele, on Thursday.

DWI said it was concerned that Atiku’s position might be misinterpreted as encouraging disregard for legal processes.

“Nnamdi Kanu is currently facing serious charges, including terrorism and treasonable felony, which involve allegations of incitement to violence and the destruction of public and private property. These are matters before the court, and the legal process should be allowed to run its course.

“By calling for Kanu’s unconditional release, there is a risk of undermining the judicial process and the efforts of those working to maintain peace and security,” it said.