Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said those who were killed due to the resurgence of violent attacks in Plateau State died as a result of President Bola Tinubu’s incompetence.

He expressed sadness over the recent killings in Zike community in the Kimakpa area of Kwali district, Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State, where at least 47 innocent lives were lost on Sunday.

In a statement, Atiku said the tragedy, coming just days after a similar attack in Bokkos LGA, is a grim reminder of the worsening state of security in our country.

“It is regrettable and entirely unacceptable that these Nigerians had to lose their lives as a result of the incompetence of the Tinubu-led administration. The protection of lives and property is the primary responsibility of any government. Unfortunately, President Tinubu has failed these citizens and continues to fail them,” he said.

Atiku also condemned the escalating wave of terrorist attacks in Borno State, which, according to Governor Babagana Zulum and the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, has resulted in the loss of lives and territory to insurgents.

He said the disturbing developments underscore the total collapse of the current administration’s security policy and architecture.

“Every sincere Nigerian should be disturbed by how terrorists and bandits operate with impunity, especially in Northern Nigeria, which has become the epicentre of this violence. The continued delay in prosecuting terrorists and bandits, some of whom have been in custody since 2016, has only emboldened these mass murderers.

“If the same level of urgency and energy were devoted to the prosecution of terrorists as we have seen applied to the trials of political critics, we would have sent a clear and forceful message that crime has consequences. Instead, justice is being delayed, and our security forces are being demoralized,” the former VP said.

He called on the Attorney General of the Federation must prioritise the prosecution of the criminals, adding that special courts should be established to fast-track their trials.

“Our justice system must not give the impression that terrorism pays.

“I am also alarmed by reports of armed criminal groups crossing our borders to carry out attacks. This is a national disgrace and further proof of a failed security framework.

“Condemnation after the fact is not enough. What is needed are proactive, preventive actions. As long as these criminals face no real consequences, they will continue to return to inflict more pain on innocent people,” he said..

Atiku also urged the National Assembly to urgently pass legislation that allows state governments to properly arm and equip their security outfits with modern weapons.

According to him, this will strengthen Nigeria’s overall security architecture and help relieve the overstretched federal security agencies.

He also called on community members to reject collaboration with armed groups and instead support Nigeria’s security forces by sharing intelligence.

“I commend the courage and sacrifices of our security forces. Their efforts remain invaluable, but they need the full support of the people and a government that prioritizes security, not just with words but with decisive action.

“May the souls of the departed rest in peace. We owe them justice, and we owe Nigeria a safer future,” he said.