By The Analyst Online Media
ABUJA, Nigeria — Former Vice President of Nigeria and Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has strongly condemned the alleged assault on Mr. Tempo Mudi, reportedly a Protocol Officer to the Governor of Delta State, during a political event in Warri, Delta State.
According to reports, Mudi was attacked by a group of youths while campaigning for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Centre in Effurun.
Reacting to the incident, Atiku described the attack as regrettable, unacceptable, and contrary to the democratic ideals upon which Nigeria's constitutional order is founded.
«"No matter how unpopular a political opinion may be, no Nigerian deserves to be assaulted for expressing it. Democracy thrives on persuasion, debate, and the freedom to hold divergent views—not intimidation, violence, or mob action," Atiku stated.»
While acknowledging the growing frustration among Nigerians—particularly young people—over worsening economic conditions, high inflation, unemployment, declining purchasing power, and widespread hardship, the former Vice President maintained that public dissatisfaction must never translate into violence.
He argued that although many citizens believe the current administration has failed to meet expectations, democratic change can only be achieved through lawful and constitutional means.
«"President Tinubu's record has already rendered its own verdict. Nigerians know that this administration has been an abysmal failure. Its record of economic mismanagement, deepening poverty, rising insecurity, and broken promises speaks louder than any campaign speech. But no matter how justified the public anger may be, violence is not, and can never be, the route to national redemption. We must not become what we seek to replace."»
Atiku urged Nigerians to embrace the ballot rather than violence as the legitimate instrument for political change.
«"Our greatest weapon against bad governance is not our fists but our votes. Those who have inflicted untold hardship on Nigerians should be rejected through the ballot box, not through physical confrontation. The Permanent Voter Card remains the most powerful instrument for democratic change."»
The former Vice President further appealed to youths in Delta State and across the country to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to democratic engagement.
He stressed that the opposition must distinguish itself by upholding tolerance, civility, and respect for the constitutional rights of every Nigerian, including political opponents.
«"The Nigeria we seek to build is one where ideas compete freely, citizens are safe to express their opinions, and governments are changed by ballots—not by brutality. Let us channel our collective anger into peaceful democratic action and ensure that those who have failed the nation are held accountable at the polls."»
The statement was signed by Phrank Shaibu, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
The Analyst Online Media reports that the incident has reignited concerns over political intolerance and the need for all political actors and supporters to embrace peaceful participation as Nigeria's democratic process continues.