Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged urgent government intervention following violent clashes between the Bachama and Tsobo communities in Lamurde, Adamawa State. He described the bloodshed and destruction as “unacceptable” and called for immediate measures to protect lives and restore peace.

In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Wednesday, Atiku stressed that both the Federal and State Governments have a “solemn duty to act decisively” to halt the violence. He noted reports alleging that women protesters were shot and killed by soldiers of the 23rd Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Yola, while stressing that the Army has reportedly denied involvement.

He wrote, “Even more distressing are the reports alleging that women protesters were shot and killed by soldiers of the 23rd Brigade, Nigerian Army, Yola. Such an atrocity, if true, is not only shocking but an assault on our collective conscience. Although the Army has reportedly denied involvement, these conflicting accounts demand nothing less than a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation.

“Whoever is responsible for these killings, civilian or military, must be held fully accountable under the law. At a time when the world is rallying to end gender-based violence, the brutal killing of women, or any citizen for that matter, in cold blood cannot be tolerated or excused.”

Atiku extended condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for solace for those affected.
“My heart goes out to the families who have lost loved ones, and to all who have been scarred by this senseless violence. May God comfort them in this dark hour,” he said.

He reaffirmed his solidarity with the Hama Bachama, His Royal Majesty Dr. Daniel Isma’ila Shaga, and the entire Bachama Kingdom. Atiku called on both communities to “pull back from the brink and choose peace,” stressing that dialogue, mutual respect, and unity remain essential for resolving the conflict.

The former vice president emphasised that the conflicting accounts of the killings demand a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation.

“The claims by locals and the counterclaims by the military must not be brushed aside. Nigeria deserves answers, and the victims deserve justice. The Federal and State Governments must pursue the truth to its very end,” he said.

Atiku’s appeal highlights the urgent need for calm and decisive action in Lamurde as authorities investigate the events and seek accountability for those responsible.