A socio-political organisation, Yoruba Ronu Group, has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his comments on the recent rescue of abducted school children and teachers in Oyo State.
This is as it accused Mr Atiku of politicising national security.
The Chairman of the group, Diran Iyantan, made the position known in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday in Akure.
According to him, Atiku’s remarks on President Bola Tinubu’s handling of the rescue operation is unfortunate, because the former vice president failed to acknowledge the efforts of the nation’s security agencies.
“Every patriotic Nigerian should celebrate the successful rescue of the victims and commend the armed forces, and other security agencies for their efforts.
“Security operations are intelligence-driven and professional exercises that should not be viewed through political considerations or media publicity.
“The responsibility of the Commander-in-Chief extends beyond making public appearances after security operations.
“Leadership also involves providing strategic direction, intelligence support and adequate resources for security institutions.
“Tinubu has consistently strengthened the capacity of our armed forces, and the increasing successes being recorded against terrorists, kidnappers and criminals are clear evidence that his administration is making measurable progress.
“What Nigerians expect from opposition leaders is constructive support, not relentless cynicism whenever the country records security victories,” Mr Iyantan said.
The group’s chairman also faulted Atiku for allegedly linking the successful rescue operation with the political activities of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
“Such comment is irresponsible and misleading, national security should not be used for partisan political purposes.
“Political leaders, irrespective of party affiliation, should support the efforts of the government and security agencies in tackling insecurity across the country,” he said.
Mr Iyantan reaffirmed the group’s confidence in Tinubu’s leadership and called on Nigerians to remain united in supporting the nation’s security institutions in the fight against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.