Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly condemned the recent wave of deadly attacks in Plateau and Borno states, accusing President Bola Tinubu’s administration of a complete failure in handling national security.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku described the Sunday massacre in Zike community, Bassa LGA, Plateau State—which left about 47 dead—as yet another tragic example of the government’s inability to protect its citizens. This attack came just days after similar violence in Bokkos LGA, where dozens were also killed and properties destroyed.
Atiku also decried the growing number of terrorist attacks in Borno State, lamenting the continued loss of lives and territory to Boko Haram insurgents.
“These repeated tragedies point to the total collapse of security infrastructure and policy under the Tinubu-led government,” Atiku said. He called for urgent, proactive measures to prevent further bloodshed, insisting that mere condemnation by officials is no longer sufficient.
He urged the Federal Government to prioritise the prosecution of terrorists and bandits, criticizing the prolonged detention of suspects—some held since 2016—without trial. “The delay in bringing terrorists to justice only emboldens them and undermines the morale of our security forces,” he said.
Atiku advocated for the creation of special courts to fast-track trials and emphasized that the Attorney General must give such cases top priority.
He further expressed concern over Nigeria’s porous borders, which he said allow armed criminal groups to infiltrate the country and carry out attacks with ease.
“The frequency and impunity of these attacks, particularly in Northern Nigeria, are alarming. Until perpetrators face real consequences, the violence will persist,” Atiku warned.
