Atiku condemns terror attacks in Nigeria, thanks US for support

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has decried the recent wave of violent attacks across Nigeria, warning that the growing insecurity threatens the nation’s unity, peace, and stability, while also expressing gratitude to the United States for its support in combating terrorism.

In a statement posted on his official X account on Saturday, Atiku criticised the surge in violence, describing the incidents as unacceptable and harmful to the country’s identity.

He denounced the “continued acts of terrorism and brigandage,” stressing that such attacks on civilians “must never be allowed to define who we are as a people.”

The former vice president also sympathised with victims and affected communities, urging authorities to take decisive and coordinated action to tackle the worsening security situation.

“The foremost responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property. It is therefore imperative that renewed urgency, coordination, and resolve be brought to bear in confronting this challenge and restoring public confidence,” he said.

Atiku further acknowledged the role of international partners, particularly the United States, in supporting Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.

“I also acknowledge, with appreciation, the continued support of the President and Government of the United States of America in the global fight against terrorism. This cooperation underscores the importance of sustained international partnership in addressing threats to peace and security,” he wrote.

His remarks come amid a fresh spate of deadly incidents in different parts of the country.

In Borno State, a coordinated attack on a military formation in Benisheikh resulted in the deaths of soldiers from the 29 Task Force Brigade under Operation HADIN KAI, including Brigadier-General O.O. Braimah, with several vehicles and facilities destroyed.

The North-East continues to grapple with insurgency linked to Boko Haram and breakaway factions such as the Islamic State West Africa Province, despite prolonged military operations.

During the Easter period, separate attacks in Kaduna and Benue states also left casualties and abductions. In Kaduna, gunmen stormed churches in Ariko village, Kachia Local Government Area, killing five worshippers and abducting 31 people. In Benue, suspected armed herders killed 10 residents in Gwer East Local Government Area.

Violence was also reported in other regions, including fresh bandit assaults in Katsina State where a police officer was killed, and an attack on the Awapul community in Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State, where homes and shops were set ablaze.

Additionally, coordinated attacks in Kebbi and Kwara states reportedly claimed at least 49 lives, with Kebbi recording 44 deaths across several communities in Shanga Local Government Area.

Despite the grim situation, Atiku expressed confidence in Nigeria’s resilience, saying, “Nigeria will endure, and with collective resolve, we shall prevail.”