By Achile Danjuma
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly condemned the recent wave of terrorist attacks in Maiduguri, Borno State, warning that the resurgence of such violence threatens to undermine public faith in the government’s ability to protect its citizens. He is urging a critical and immediate review of the nation’s security strategies.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Atiku expressed his deep distress over the incidents. “I am very sad at the latest terrorist attacks in Borno State and the resurfacing of suicide bombing that were hitherto defeated,” he said. He cautioned that this regression poses a grave risk, stating, “The resurgence of terrorism is capable of eroding public confidence in the ability of the government to protect its own citizens.”
The condemnation follows a devastating night in Maiduguri on Monday, when three near-simultaneous suicide bombings targeted the busy Monday Market, the Post Office area, and a location near the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. The coordinated attacks resulted in at least 23 fatalities and left more than 100 others injured. In the aftermath, families have been desperately searching for loved ones who were in the affected areas at the time of the blasts.
Atiku drew parallels to the peak of the insurgency, expressing deep concern over the current trajectory of violence. “The increased waves of killing of soldiers and civilians by terrorists is reviving sad memories of 2014 when Boko Haram was most active in the country,” he noted.
While acknowledging the efforts of security forces, Atiku stressed the need for a strategic shift by the federal government. “While I commend the sacrifices of our servicemen in the conduct of unconventional warfare, the Tinubu administration should review its strategies,” he said.
The former Vice President also took aim at the government’s communication strategy in the face of the crisis, arguing that official statements are an inadequate response to the violence. “Nigerians are not impressed with the government’s statements condemning terrorist attacks. They are more concerned about results. Results speak louder than the tough government’s rhetoric,” he asserted.
In a sharp critique of the administration’s priorities, Atiku alleged a misplacement of focus. “The Tinubu government appears to be more obsessed with crushing opposition politicians than it is with fixing the worsening security challenges. And it is obvious that despite the marching orders, the terrorists are still on the offensive.”