Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the current spate of violent attacks in Nigeria, saying that rising insecurity endangers the country’s unity, peace, and stability, while also thanking the United States for its assistance in battling terrorism.
Atiku condemned the increase of violence in a statement posted on his official X account on Saturday, calling the incidents reprehensible and damaging to the country’s identity.
He condemned the “continued acts of terrorism and brigandage,” stating that such attacks on civilians “must never be allowed to define who we are as a people.”
Atiku also sympathized with victims and affected communities, urging authorities to take decisive and coordinated action to tackle the worsening security situation.
“The foremost responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property. It is therefore imperative that renewed urgency, coordination, and resolve be brought to bear in confronting this challenge and restoring public confidence,” he said.
He further acknowledged the role of international partners, particularly the United States, in supporting Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
“I also acknowledge, with appreciation, the continued support of the president and government of the United States of America in the global fight against terrorism. This cooperation underscores the importance of sustained international partnership in addressing threats to peace and security,” he wrote.
His statements came amid a recent series of tragic incidents around the country.
In Borno State, a concerted attack on a military formation in Benisheikh killed soldiers from the 29 Task Force Brigade as part of Operation HADIN KAI, including Brigadier-General O.O. Braimah, and destroyed multiple vehicles and buildings.
Despite extensive military operations, the Northeast is still dealing with an insurgency linked to Boko Haram and offshoot factions such as the Islamic State West Africa Province.
During the Easter holiday, separate attacks in Kaduna and Benue states resulted in casualties and abductions.
In Kaduna, gunmen invaded churches in Ariko Village, Kachia Local Government Area, murdering five worshippers and kidnapping 31 others.
Suspected armed herders massacred ten villagers in Benue’s Gwer East Local Government Area.
Other regions also saw violence, including new bandit attacks in Katsina State, which killed a police officer, and an attack on the Awapul village in Borno State’s Chibok Local Government Area, where homes and shops were set on fire.
Furthermore, coordinated attacks in Kebbi and Kwara states reportedly killed at least 49 lives, with Kebbi accounting for 44 killings across several localities in Shanga Local Government Area.
Despite the dire circumstances, Atiku voiced optimism in Nigeria’s resiliency, saying, “Nigeria will endure, and with collective resolve, we shall prevail.”
