Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has decried the worsening security situation across the country, calling for urgent government intervention following the abduction of 20 travelers, including prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, in Imo State.
In a strongly worded statement, Atiku expressed deep anguish over the recurring wave of kidnappings, noting that while some of the travelers have been rescued, several remain in captivity. He urged the Federal Government, the Imo State government, and all security agencies to act with immediate urgency to secure the safe return of those still being held.
The former Vice President also drew attention to the plight of over 70 pupils and students abducted from Mussa and Lassa in Borno State, who remain in captivity months after their abduction. Stressing that these children must not be forgotten, Atiku demanded clear updates for their grieving families and transparent answers for the Nigerian public.
Criticizing the administration’s security record, Atiku recalled promises made regarding the reinvestment of savings from the removal of fuel subsidies into national security. Despite these assurances, he noted that ordinary citizens remain highly vulnerable to criminal elements on highways, within communities, and around educational institutions.
“Young people face danger in secondary school, struggle with unaffordable fees at university, and are now targets on their journeys to NYSC camps. This is a generation being failed at every stage,” Atiku stated.
He further criticized the distribution of high-profile pipeline security contracts, contrasting lucrative deals awarded to politically connected companies with the daily insecurity faced by ordinary Nigerians on the streets. He emphasized that the primary constitutional duty of any government is the protection of lives and property.
Concluding his statement, Atiku offered prayers for the immediate and safe rescue of every abducted young person and unaccounted-for citizen. He reiterated his political vision and personal commitment to building a safer, more affordable Nigeria where the younger generation can “create, build, and prosper.”
