Insecurity: Atiku Reacts to Rising Terror Attacks, Urges Urgent Government Action

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the rising wave of violent attacks across Nigeria, describing them as a serious threat to the country’s peace, unity, and stability.

In a statement shared on his official X account on Saturday, Atiku denounced what he called “continued acts of terrorism and brigandage,” stressing that violence against innocent citizens “must never be allowed to define who we are as a people.”

He extended condolences to victims and affected communities, while urging authorities to intensify efforts to address 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.

Atiku also acknowledged the support of the United States government in the fight against terrorism, calling for sustained international cooperation in tackling insecurity.

His remarks come amid a fresh wave of deadly attacks across several parts of the country.

In Borno State, a coordinated assault on a military base in Benisheikh led to the killing of soldiers of the 29 Task Force Brigade under Operation HADIN KAI, including Brigadier-General O.O. Braimah, with vehicles and buildings destroyed.

The North-East continues to face persistent insurgent attacks from Boko Haram and its splinter group, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), despite ongoing military operations.

In separate incidents during the Easter period, attacks in Kaduna State and Benue State left several people dead and others abducted.

In Kaduna, gunmen attacked churches in Ariko village, Kachia Local Government Area, killing five worshippers and abducting 31 people, while in Benue, suspected armed herders killed 10 residents in Gwer East Local Government Area.

Other parts of the country also recorded violence, including renewed bandit attacks in Katsina State, where a police officer was killed, and an attack on the Awapul community in Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State, where houses and shops were burnt.

At least 49 villagers were reportedly killed in coordinated attacks across Kebbi State and Kwara State, with Kebbi accounting for 44 deaths across multiple communities in Shanga Local Government Area.

The incidents have heightened concerns over worsening insecurity, particularly in rural communities frequently targeted by armed groups.

Atiku, however, expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its challenges, saying, “Nigeria will endure, and with collective resolve, we shall prevail.”