RismadarVoice Reporters, July 30, 2026
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has condemned the alleged assault on a supporter of President Bola Tinubu during a political event in Delta State, describing the incident as a threat to democratic values.
Atiku’s reaction followed reports that Mr Tempo Mudi, said to be a Protocol Officer to the Delta State Governor, was allegedly attacked by a group of youths while campaigning for President Tinubu’s re-election at the Petroleum Training Institute Conference Centre in Effurun.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, the former vice president said no Nigerian should be subjected to violence for expressing political opinions, regardless of party affiliation or ideological differences.
He stressed that democracy is sustained through dialogue, persuasion and respect for opposing views, rather than intimidation or acts of violence.
While acknowledging widespread public frustration over the country’s economic challenges, Atiku said many Nigerians, especially young people, were grappling with inflation, unemployment, declining purchasing power and other hardships. He, however, maintained that dissatisfaction with government should be expressed through lawful and democratic means.
The former vice president criticised the Tinubu administration’s handling of the economy and governance, arguing that its performance would ultimately be judged by Nigerians. Despite his criticism, he insisted that political grievances should never be pursued through violence.
He urged citizens to use the ballot box as the legitimate means of holding elected leaders accountable, describing the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) as the most effective tool for democratic change.
Atiku also appealed to youths in Delta State and across the country to remain peaceful, law-abiding and committed to democratic principles.
According to him, the opposition must continue to demonstrate tolerance, civility and respect for the rights of all Nigerians, including those with differing political views.
He added that the country’s democratic future depends on allowing ideas to compete freely and ensuring that political power is determined through credible elections rather than intimidation or violence.
