By Jibrin Mohammed
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress chieftain, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep concern over the increasing audacity of bandits who attack communities at will, often unchallenged.
Atiku’s remarks follow the recent abduction of over 177 worshippers from ECWA Church and Cherubim and Seraphim Churches 1 and 2 in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
According to reports, the attack came barely a week after the same community paid N2.6 million ransom for the release of 20 residents previously kidnapped.
In a statement signed by his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku described the situation as “colossally embarrassing,” noting that while some states claim peace deals with bandits, the criminals continue to abduct citizens with impunity.
He observed that deterrence is difficult where negotiations favour the bandits and warned against allowing non-state actors to dictate the terms of peace.
Atiku stressed that the government must respond proactively to attacks rather than reacting after they occur.
He added that Nigerians are no longer persuaded by rhetoric and expect tangible results in the fight against insecurity.
The former Vice President urged the Tinubu-led administration to be held accountable to its campaign promises on ending insecurity, stating that excuses will no longer suffice.
