Southern Kaduna killings: I attended church service in Kagoro – Atiku denies ignoring victims of violence
Atiku Abubakar Responds to Accusations of Ignoring Violence Victims
Atiku Abubakar, the 2027 presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), addressed accusations made by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, who claimed Abubakar has neglected victims of violence in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Sunday, Abubakar rejected Lawal’s assertions as unfounded. He emphasized his recent attendance at a church thanksgiving service in the Kagoro area of Southern Kaduna, which was held to support families affected by recent violence.
Abubakar’s spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, provided further context, stating that when tragedy struck the Kagoro community, Abubakar did not differentiate among the victims based on religion or ethnicity. Instead, he stood in solidarity with them, illustrating his commitment to all Nigerians regardless of their backgrounds.
The statement argued that Abubakar has consistently condemned various forms of violence, including terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and communal clashes across the nation.
“The reality of banditry in Northern Nigeria is profound, leading to thousands of deaths and widespread displacement,” the statement noted. “Using this tragedy to blame an entire ethnic group is both intellectually lazy and morally wrong.”
Shaibu pointed out the irony in Lawal’s comments, noting that the same ethnic group he now criticizes once provided significant support when Lawal served in a prominent government role under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“At no point did Mr. Lawal object to his appointment by a Fulani man,” the statement continued. “It is disappointing that he now condemns an entire ethnic group simply because another Fulani man, Atiku Abubakar, seeks the presidency through a democratic process.”
In response to Lawal’s claim that Abubakar has not addressed the suffering of victims from violent attacks, the statement asserted that Abubakar has actively spoken out against terrorism and violence in various regions, including Plateau, Benue, and Borno.
“One may disagree with his approaches or question their adequacy, but to suggest he has been silent is simply inaccurate,” the statement concluded.
