Atiku Condemns Niger Attacks, Mourns Victims, Calls for Urgent Security Response

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the deadly attacks on communities in Agwarra and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State, describing the incident as a disturbing assault on innocent and defenceless citizens.

In a statement released on Sunday via his official X handle, Atiku said he was “deeply saddened by the heinous attacks on communities in Agwarra and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State,” noting that the violence resulted in the killing of scores of residents and the abduction of several others, including schoolchildren.

He described the incident as “a brazen level of brutality against defenseless communities,” stressing that such acts were unacceptable and posed a serious challenge to national security.

The former vice president expressed sympathy with those affected, saying, “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and I stand in solidarity with the people and government of Niger State during this painful moment.”

Atiku added that his thoughts were with victims of the attack, particularly the abducted children, as he called on authorities to act decisively.

“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.

Emphasising the responsibility of government, Atiku reminded authorities that “the primary duty of any government is the protection of lives and property,” urging urgent steps to reinforce security, reassure affected communities and ensure accountability.

According to him, there is a need to “strengthen our security architecture, restore confidence in affected communities, and bring the perpetrators of these atrocities to justice.”