Former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has criticized President Bola Tinubu for the recent wave of attacks in various regions of the country, urging the Federal Government to take more decisive action to combat insecurity.
In a message on Monday via his official X feed, Atiku expressed concern that recent violent episodes appear to violate pledges made by the president following the Angwan Rukuba attack.
“I wish to remind President Bola Tinubu to keep to his words that ‘this (Angwan Rukuba attack) will not repeat itself,’” he said.
He added, “It does appear that those words are hollow because barely 72 hours later, another attack in Benue State claimed over a dozen lives. The Commander-in-Chief should brace up to the challenges of governance.”
The former presidential candidate also expressed concern about happenings in a community in Nasarawa State, where inhabitants have reportedly evacuated their houses because of fears of future attacks.
“I am also concerned, like all well-meaning Nigerians, about what is going on in a Nasarawa community where families had fled on foot amid threats of attack,” he stated.
Atiku also mentioned a different incident in Kaduna State, describing it as part of a disturbing trend of insecurity.
“And as if those are not enough, there was a fresh attack in Kaduna State at the weekend,” he added.
He stressed that the foremost duty of the government is to ensure the safety and welfare of its citizens.
“The primary responsibility of government is the protection of lives and property and the promotion of the welfare of citizens,” he stated.
Calling for urgent action, Atiku charged the president to move beyond rhetoric.
“Enough of this hollow rhetoric, Mr. President. It is time to fold your sleeves and get to work,” he said.
Atiku also extended condolences to the victims of the attacks.
“Meanwhile, my thoughts and prayers are with the families who may have lost a dear one in these attacks,” he added.
