Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has called for the declaration of an emergency on security as concerns grow over escalating attacks by terrorists and bandits across the country.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Paul Ibe, the former Vice President expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation, warning that recent attacks appear aimed not only at taking lives but also at undermining Nigeria’s education sector.
Atiku’s remarks followed the latest attack on Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, in Kabba Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, where three people, including the school’s Vice Principal, were reportedly killed and several students abducted.
The former Vice President noted that the attack is part of a disturbing pattern targeting educational institutions and threatening national development.
He also referenced previous incidents, including the abduction of scores of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states, which further heightened concerns about the safety of students and learning environments across the country.
According to Atiku, urgent measures are needed to strengthen the response of security agencies and reverse the growing threat posed by armed groups.
“It is high time the Federal Government declared a statement of emergency to empower commanders with more freedom to act decisively and proactively with these monsters in the county.
“I am not in any way calling for the removal of elected officials, but rather advocating for commanders to have freer hand to protect their battlefield decisions from political interference,” he said.
He stressed the need for a more robust and coordinated security strategy, warning that continued attacks on schools and communities could have far reaching consequences for national stability and development.
