Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the recent wave of violent attacks across Nigeria, warning that the escalating insecurity poses a serious threat to the country’s unity, peace, and stability.
He also expressed gratitude to the United States for its ongoing support in the fight against terrorism.
In a statement shared on his official X account on Saturday, Atiku described the rise in violence as unacceptable and damaging to the nation’s identity. He condemned the “continued acts of terrorism and brigandage,” emphasizing that such attacks on civilians “must never be allowed to define who we are as a people.”
Atiku extended his sympathies to the victims and the affected communities, urging government authorities to take swift and coordinated action to address the worsening security situation. He stressed that the protection of lives and property is the primary duty of any government, stating that it is crucial for the government to act with renewed urgency, coordination, and determination to restore public confidence.
The former vice president also acknowledged the role of international allies, especially the United States, in supporting Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. He expressed appreciation for the continued assistance from the U.S. government in the global battle against terrorism, noting that this partnership highlights the significance of sustained international cooperation in addressing threats to peace and security.
Atiku’s comments come amid a surge of deadly incidents across Nigeria. In Borno State, a coordinated assault on a military base in Benisheikh resulted in the deaths of soldiers from the 29 Task Force Brigade under Operation HADIN KAI, including Brigadier-General O.O. Braimah, with significant destruction of vehicles and facilities. The North-East continues to face insurgency issues linked to Boko Haram and its breakaway faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province, despite ongoing military efforts.
During the Easter period, Kaduna and Benue states witnessed separate attacks that led to casualties and abductions. In Kaduna, gunmen attacked churches in Ariko village, Kachia Local Government Area, killing five worshippers and abducting 31 people. In Benue, suspected armed herders killed 10 residents in Gwer East Local Government Area. Other violent incidents were reported in regions like Katsina, where bandits killed a police officer, and in Borno State’s Awapul community in Chibok Local Government Area, where homes and shops were set on fire. Additionally, coordinated assaults in Kebbi and Kwara states resulted in at least 49 deaths, with Kebbi accounting for 44 of those fatalities across multiple communities in Shanga Local Government Area.
Despite the troubling situation, Atiku expressed confidence in Nigeria’s resilience, affirming, “Nigeria will endure, and with collective resolve, we shall prevail.”
