Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi
Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have separately condemned the renewed wave of deadly attacks sweeping across parts of Nigeria, describing the persistent bloodshed as unacceptable and a national failure.
In a statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi lamented that the country was ushering in the new year with “senseless killings and insecurity” still raging across several states. He cited the deadly terrorist attack on Kasuwan-Daji Market in the Domo community of Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, where over 40 people were reportedly killed.
“It is deeply worrisome and unacceptable that, as we usher in a new year, the cycle of senseless killings and insecurity continues unchecked across our nation,” Obi said.
He also referenced other recent attacks, including the killing of residents in Bong village in Doemak District of Plateau State, bandit assaults on communities in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State, and the New Year’s Day attack on Unguwar Naino community in Katsina State.
“These incidents form part of a disturbing and tragic pattern of violence that has sadly become normalized,” Obi stated. “The repeated failure to provide basic security for citizens is a national shame, and the toll it takes on families and communities is immeasurable.”
Calling for urgent action, Obi stressed that “the protection of lives must remain the foremost responsibility of government,” adding that Nigerians need “an all-hands-on-deck approach: a coordinated, capable, and decisive effort to end the menace of insecurity that has become a daily occurrence.”
He extended condolences to affected families, saying: “To the families who have lost loved ones in Niger, Plateau, Kano, Katsina, and other affected communities this New Year, no words can truly ease your pain. Know, however, that the nation mourns with you… This cycle of violence must be stopped.”
Similarly, Atiku Abubakar, in his own post, expressed deep sorrow over the attacks in Agwarra and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State, which he said resulted in the deaths of scores of innocent people and the abduction of several residents, including schoolchildren.
“I am deeply saddened by the heinous attacks on communities in Agwarra and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State, which have led to the loss of scores of innocent lives and the abduction of several residents, including schoolchildren,” Atiku wrote.
Describing the violence as “brazen” and “deeply troubling,” the former vice president offered condolences to the bereaved families and declared his solidarity with the people and government of Niger State.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, those abducted, particularly the children, and I urge the relevant authorities to act swiftly to secure their safe and unconditional release,” he said.
Atiku further emphasized that security remains the core responsibility of leadership, stating: “The primary duty of any government is the protection of lives and property. We must strengthen our security architecture, restore confidence in affected communities, and bring the perpetrators of these atrocities to justice.”
The twin reactions come amid growing public outrage over escalating insecurity nationwide, as Nigerians continue to call for decisive measures to halt the killings, rescue abducted victims, and restore safety across the country.
