ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has issued a warning to former military head of state, General AbdulSalami Abubakar, cautioning him against making statements that could exacerbate the already tense political differences in Nigeria.
Abubakar recently remarked that the current hardship in the country is “getting out of control,” a statement that MURIC believes could incite unrest.
The group, through its Founder and Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, advised the retired general to exercise greater caution in his choice of words.
In his statement, Akintola expressed concern over the tone of Abubakar’s comments, calling it extreme.
He stated: “While it’s true that the situation is challenging, to claim that it is getting out of control may lead to similar reactions from the public.
“There is a more diplomatic way to express this, and General Abubakar, with his training and past experience as a leader, should know better.”
Akintola further noted that undiplomatic language can provoke the public, especially during a period of widespread discontent. He urged the former head of state to act as a father figure, reminding his audience that the economic hardship faced by Nigerians is part of a global crisis.
He criticized the general’s approach, especially in light of his audience, the Campaign for Democracy delegation.
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The MURIC director also condemned Abubakar’s suggestion that Nigerians could protest, even though he advised against violence.
Referring to recent protests, such as the #EndBadGovernance movement, Akintola expressed disappointment in Abubakar’s stance.
“In today’s Nigeria, there is no such thing as peaceful protest. General Abubakar himself witnessed the irrational actions of demonstrators during the last protests. How could he advocate for more protests so soon?” he questioned.
Akintola further argued that Abubakar’s public critique of the government’s palliative distribution was unnecessary.
According to him, both federal and state governments were already addressing the issues raised by Abubakar before his public statements.
“His criticism of the palliative sharing is unfortunate, especially as it has saved many lives among Nigeria’s poorest citizens,” he said.
MURIC advised General Abubakar to direct any future criticisms or suggestions privately to the government, given his close access to the corridors of power as a respected former head of state.
The group stressed that Abubakar, as the leader of the Nigerian Peace Committee, should strive to remain neutral and avoid making divisive statements.
“Nigerians still hold General Abubakar in high esteem as the former military leader who kept his promise to hand over power to civilians within one year.
“His integrity has allowed him to maintain a relevant and respected position in the nation’s political sphere,” Akintola concluded.