TINUBU UNDER FIRE | Atiku Blames President for Plateau Killings, Condemns Worsening Insecurity

Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the escalating wave of violence in Plateau and Borno States, describing it as a damning reflection of the Tinubu administration’s failure to uphold national security.

In a strongly worded statement released on Tuesday via his official X account, Atiku condemned the latest attack in Zike community, Kimakpa area of Kwali District, Bassa Local Government Area, where no fewer than 47 people were killed on Sunday. The incident followed closely on the heels of a similar mass killing in Bokkos LGA, further heightening fears across the region.

I am deeply saddened and alarmed by the resurgence of violent attacks in Plateau State, Atiku wrote. The massacre in Zike is a grim reminder of the worsening state of security in our country.

The former Vice President squarely blamed the Federal Government, accusing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of failing in the fundamental duty of protecting lives and property.

It is regrettable and entirely unacceptable that these Nigerians lost their lives due to the incompetence of the Tinubu-led administration. Security is the primary responsibility of any government — President Tinubu has failed these citizens and continues to fail them.

Atiku also condemned the rising tide of terrorist attacks in Borno State, referencing recent comments by Governor Babagana Zulum and the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, who both lamented the loss of lives and territories to insurgents.

These developments underscore the total collapse of the current administration’s security strategy. Terrorists and bandits now operate with impunity, especially in Northern Nigeria.

He further criticized the government’s failure to prosecute terrorists and bandits, noting that many have remained in custody without trial since 2016, which, he said, has emboldened violent actors.

If the same urgency used to prosecute political critics were applied to terrorists, it would send a clear message that crime carries consequences. Instead, justice is delayed, and our security forces are demoralized.

Atiku urged the Attorney General of the Federation to prioritize terrorism-related prosecutions and called for the creation of special courts to fast-track justice for victims.

Our justice system must not give the impression that terrorism pays. Swift and decisive judicial action is necessary to deter further violence.

He also raised alarm over reports of armed criminal groups infiltrating Nigeria’s borders, calling it a national disgrace and more evidence of a failed security framework.

In a call to action, Atiku urged the National Assembly to pass laws allowing state governments to establish and properly arm local security outfits to support overstretched federal forces.

Condemnation after tragedy is not enough. What we need is a proactive approach. Without real consequences, these criminals will keep returning to kill, maim, and destroy.

He emphasized that security is a shared responsibility, urging communities to reject aiding criminal groups and instead cooperate with security agencies by sharing intelligence.

Atiku concluded by commending the efforts of Nigeria’s security forces and calling on the government to provide them with greater support and resources.

Our security personnel are making great sacrifices. They deserve not just our appreciation, but the full backing of a government that prioritizes action over empty rhetoric.

The statement adds to growing public criticism of the government’s handling of Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, particularly in the North.