Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Saturday condemned a rash of deadly attacks in some parts of the country, warning that unchecked terrorism and banditry threaten national unity and stability.
In a statement posted to his official X account, Atiku decried the “continued acts of terrorism and brigandage” against civilians, urging authorities to treat the protection of lives and property as government’s top priority.
“Renewed urgency, coordination, and resolve” are essential to restore public confidence, he said, while extending condolences to victims’ families.
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NewsQuest reports that remarks by the former Vice President come amid escalating violence that has strained the nation’s security forces.
In Borno State, insurgents launched a coordinated assault on a military base in Benisheikh, killing soldiers from the 29 Task Force Brigade—including Brigadier-General O.O. Braimah—and destroying vehicles and buildings.
The northeast remains a hotbed for Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province militants, despite years of counterinsurgency operations.
Over the Easter holiday, gunmen struck churches in Kaduna State’s Ariko village, killing five worshippers and abducting 31 others.
In Benue State, suspected armed herders killed 10 residents in Gwer East. Separate bandit raids in Katsina State claimed a policeman’s life, while attacks razed homes and shops in Borno’s Chibok area. Coordinated assaults in Kebbi and Kwara states left at least 49 villagers dead, including 44 in Kebbi’s Shanga district.
Atiku has praised US support in counterterrorism efforts and voiced optimism: “Nigeria will endure, and with collective resolve, we shall prevail.”
