Former Vice President and presidential aspirant Atiku Abubakar has condemned the recent spate of terrorist attacks in Niger State, describing them as “heinous” and demanding the immediate rescue of abducted residents.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Waziri of Adamawa expressed deep sorrow over the killings and abductions in Agwarra and Borgu Local Government Areas. The attacks claimed several lives and led to the kidnapping of many residents, including schoolchildren.
Atiku described the assaults on defenceless communities as a brazen violation of the sanctity of human life, warning that the rising brutality was unacceptable and deeply disturbing.
While commiserating with affected families and the Niger State government, he stressed that the growing climate of fear must be confronted with decisive action by the state.
With many victims, especially children taken from schools, still in captivity, Atiku urged authorities to act without delay. “My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and those abducted, particularly the children. I urge the relevant authorities to move swiftly to secure their safe and unconditional release,” he said.
He also reminded the Federal Government that its legitimacy depends on its ability to protect lives and property. Atiku called for a comprehensive review of security strategies to restore public confidence, which he said has been eroded by persistent attacks in the North-Central region.
Beyond the immediate rescue efforts, he advocated stronger security deployments in vulnerable rural areas, a visible state presence, and the prosecution of arrested suspects to deter future attacks.
The renewed violence in Niger State has continued to attract national and international attention, with Atiku’s remarks adding to mounting calls for a coordinated and effective security response to safeguard communities.
