School Abductions: Focus on security, not reelection campaign, Atiku counsels Tinubu
Atiku Abubakar Urges President to Prioritize National Security Over Election Campaigns
By Omeiza Ajayi, Abuja
Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 election, Atiku Abubakar, has advised President Bola Tinubu to focus on the security of Nigerians rather than on re-election campaigning. His comments followed the recent rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.
In a statement released Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku praised the courage and professionalism exhibited by the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies involved in the rescue operation.
Atiku highlighted the coincidental timing of the rescue, occurring on the same day that the national leadership of the President’s party launched its “Door-to-Door” campaign for the upcoming presidential election.
“No serious government should prioritize re-election campaigns while innocent schoolchildren remain in captivity for weeks,” Atiku stated. “The foremost duty of any responsible administration is to ensure the safety of its citizens. Yesterday should have been designated for response and strategy, not campaigning.”
While acknowledging the military’s swift action, Atiku criticized the presidential response as insufficient. He noted that a true commander-in-chief should have publicly celebrated the rescue alongside defense chiefs, providing the nation with updates and affirmations of commitment to resolving ongoing security challenges.
“The nation expected to see a unified front from the Commander-in-Chief,” he said. “Leadership moments like these are crucial for public confidence and military morale.”
Atiku lamented that the significant achievement was announced by the president’s spokesman while the president remained occupied with political activities. He asserted that tangible recognition of military achievements is vital in the fight against terrorism.
“When our troops accomplish a difficult mission, they deserve visible recognition from the President,” he stated. “Such gestures bolster public confidence and send a message to those who threaten our safety that they are up against a determined state.”
He underscored that the successful rescue should not overshadow the ongoing struggle faced by many Nigerians, including countless abducted individuals in Borno and other regions.
“At this moment, the real campaign any president should undertake is for the safety and security of the Nigerian people,” Atiku concluded, urging the federal government to maintain pressure on terrorists and kidnappers until all abductees are freed and communities regain peace.
