Atiku laments spate of killings in North-Central, lambasts FG
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the escalating violence in Nigeria’s North-Central region, accusing the Tinubu administration of failing in its constitutional duty to protect lives and property.
Atiku described the resurgence of attacks in the region as evidence that the Federal Government has “abandoned the North-Central to bloodshed.” He noted that Kwara State, once considered safe, has become a hotspot for banditry and kidnappings, while Niger State has witnessed militants attacking military bases, killing soldiers, and even massacring worshippers in a mosque.
According to him, more than 10,000 people have been killed in Northern states within just two years of President Tinubu’s tenure, with Benue State alone accounting for over half of the casualties. “Mass killings continue weekly, while the government pretends nothing is wrong. This is a monumental failure,” Atiku said.
The former vice president also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of weaponizing violence against the opposition instead of confronting insecurity. He cited recent attacks on political gatherings in Kaduna, Kebbi, and Ogun states, alleging that security forces failed to intervene and even blamed the victims.
Atiku maintained that any politician who relies on violence to win elections is desperate, unpopular, and a threat to democracy. He stressed that democracy cannot thrive in an atmosphere of intimidation and bloodshed.
He also reminded the Nigeria Police of their constitutional duty to remain neutral in political matters, emphasizing that they are funded by taxpayers, not by any political party.
“Violence is a vicious circle that will eventually consume those who use it,” Atiku warned, urging security agencies to restore public confidence through decisive and impartial action.
He further called on Nigerians to unite against insecurity, stressing that silence and inaction would only embolden criminal elements and deepen the cycle of violence.
