Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly condemned a violent attack on prominent opposition leaders in southern Nigeria, warning that the country risks sliding into a period of intensified political instability.
Among those reportedly targeted were Peter Obi, a leading opposition figure and former presidential candidate, John Oyegun, Oserheimen Osunbor and Olumide Akpata.
The incident occurred in Benin City, the capital of Edo State in southern Nigeria.
In a statement, Atiku described the incident as utterly condemnable and unacceptable in any democracy, arguing that increasingly hostile political rhetoric has contributed to a dangerous environment.
He alleged that inflammatory language from members of the ruling All Progressives Congress has fueled tensions and normalized aggression against political opponents.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country and largest economy, has faced mounting political tensions in the aftermath of recent electoral cycles.
Atiku warned that opposition figures are facing growing pressure both through state institutions and, increasingly, through physical intimidation.