Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the renewed wave of violence in Plateau and Borno States, calling it a clear sign of the failure of President Bola Tinubu’s security policies and infrastructure.
Atiku’s reaction followed Sunday’s deadly attack in Zike community, Kwali district of Bassa Local Government Area in Plateau State, where at least 47 people were killed.
The incident came just over a week after a similar attack in Bokkos Local Government Area that also claimed several lives and destroyed properties.
He also expressed concern over the increasing activities of terrorists in Borno State, referencing warnings from Governor Babagana Zulum and the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, about growing threats posed by Boko Haram insurgents in the region.
In a statement released on Monday, Atiku described the growing insecurity as “disgraceful” and a major threat to national stability.
He blamed the government’s weak response and poor handling of internal security challenges for the worsening crisis.
“It is worrying that terrorists and bandits continue to attack communities with alarming frequency and impunity, especially in the North. The government’s inability to bring these criminals to justice only emboldens them,” Atiku stated.
He lamented the prolonged detention of hundreds of suspected terrorists and bandits without trial, some since 2016, arguing that this failure undermines both the justice system and the morale of security operatives.
“If the government had pursued the prosecution of terrorists with the same energy used against political opponents, we would be sending a stronger message that crime doesn’t pay,” he added.
Atiku called on the Attorney General of the Federation to give priority to prosecuting terrorism-related cases and proposed the creation of special courts to fast-track trials. He said delaying justice not only weakens law enforcement efforts but also encourages further violence.
He also criticized the ease with which foreign armed groups cross into Nigeria, noting that this exposes the country’s porous borders and ineffective border security.
While acknowledging the sacrifices of Nigeria’s security forces, Atiku stressed that condemning attacks after they happen is no longer enough. He urged the Federal Government to adopt a proactive strategy that prevents attacks before they occur.
The former vice president also appealed to the National Assembly to urgently pass legislation allowing state governments to equip and arm local security outfits to support federal agencies, which are overstretched and under-resourced.
He further urged residents not to support criminal groups or serve as informants, emphasizing that communities must play a role in safeguarding their own safety by cooperating with security agencies.
Atiku concluded by reiterating his support for Nigeria’s military and security agencies, but warned that without effective policies and public cooperation, their efforts alone will not be enough to overcome the growing threat of insecurity.
The statement was signed by Paul Ibe of the Atiku Media Office and dated April 14, 2025.
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