Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a stern warning that Nigerian security chiefs who ordered the shooting of peaceful protesters will face charges of “crimes against humanity” in the future.

In a statement posted on X on Tuesday, Mr Abubakar cautioned Nigeria’s service chiefs and military commanders, stating,  “I wish to convey a stern caution to the distinguished service chiefs and military commanders of Nigeria’s armed forces that those who authorise the use of lethal force against peaceful civilian protesters will be held responsible for committing crimes against humanity, even in the years following their retirement from service.”

Mr Abubakar added, “The constitutional right to engage in protest is firmly established within our supreme law and reinforced by the judiciary. It is the solemn duty of the government and security agencies to ensure a safe and protected environment for individuals exercising their right to peaceful protest.”

Mr Abubakar’s warning follows his earlier call for the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate President Bola Tinubu and the police for their role in opening fire on protesters on August 1, which resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals.

Since the protests began, over 23 people have been killed by Nigerian police, according to Amnesty International.

Amnesty International has condemned the Nigerian police for allegedly using live ammunition against protesters. Despite video evidence showing security operatives firing live rounds, the Nigerian police have denied these accusations.

The ICC holds a global mandate to “investigate and prosecute individuals for the gravest crimes of concern to the international community, including genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression.”

The military, meanwhile, has claimed that protesters waving Russian flags have committed treason, a crime punishable by death.