Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly condemned the renewed wave of deadly attacks in Plateau and Borno states, describing the security situation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration as a “woeful failure.”
Atiku, in a statement issued on Monday through his media aide, Paul Ibe, expressed outrage over the Sunday attack in Zike community, Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, which claimed the lives of at least 47 people. The incident comes just over a week after a similar massacre in Bokkos Local Government Area.
“These repeated attacks are disgraceful and a direct indictment of the security policy and infrastructure of the current administration,” Atiku stated.
The Waziri of Adamawa also raised alarm over the resurgence of terrorist activities in Borno State, where insurgents have been reclaiming territories and killing civilians.
According to Atiku, the government’s inability to prosecute terrorists and bandits arrested since 2016 has emboldened violent groups to operate with impunity. He criticized what he described as the government’s prioritization of silencing political critics over prosecuting mass murderers.
“If the government had devoted the same energy to prosecuting terrorists as it does in clamping down on political dissent, it would have sent a strong message that there are consequences for taking innocent lives,” he said.
He called on the Attorney General of the Federation to prioritize the trial of terrorists, suggesting the creation of special courts to fast-track justice.
“Hundreds of terrorists remain in custody without trial, which not only demoralizes our security forces but also emboldens the perpetrators,” Atiku added.
He further lamented Nigeria’s porous borders, which he said allow armed criminal groups to infiltrate and wreak havoc without resistance.
Atiku concluded by warning that unless decisive and proactive security measures are taken, terrorists and bandits will continue to strike with impunity, leaving more Nigerians vulnerable to violence. He said mere condemnation is not enough—what the country needs now is action.
Comments