By Rafiu Ajakaye
Lagos Nigeria (AA) – Leader of a Nigerian protest movement demanding the resignation of President Muhammadu Buhari was attacked Tuesday at a market in the country’s capital Abuja.
Charles Oputa, popular local artiste and son of a prominent retired jurist, came under physical assault in Wuse market as he, along with other members of the movement, sought to drum support for their #ResumeOrResign protest which started penultimate Monday.
“We just went to Wuse market for mobilization against 100 days event tomorrow and a regular face at Unity Fountain brought thugs to attack us,” Adeyanju Deji, one of the protest organizers, tweeted.
Deji said Oputa was injured while his car was damaged by the thugs.
Locals in the market confirmed the incident.
“Charly Boy and his people were attacked here by people who felt they shouldn’t use the market for political campaign. I don’t know the identities of the attackers but they are youths from this market,” Ado Abu, a middle-aged fruit vendor, told Anadolu Agency.
Abu said Oputa was “badly injured” by the stone-throwing mob believed to be supporters of the ailing 74-year-old leader.
Buhari has been in London since May 7 treating an undisclosed ailment. He handed over power to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who now acts as president.
Opinions are divided over the anti-Buhari protest. Nigerian senate last week said Buhari had broken no law with his long and indefinite medical vacation. Supporters of the protest say Buhari ought to declare his health status since he is a public figure whose stay in London is at the expense of public funds.
