By Luminous Jannamike

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the deadly attacks on communities in Agwarra and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State, describing the killings and abductions as a grave failure of the state?s fundamental responsibility to protect its citizens.

In a statement on Sunday, he expressed deep sadness over the attacks, which led to the loss of scores of innocent lives and the abduction of several residents, including schoolchildren.

?I am deeply saddened by the heinous attacks on communities in Agwarra and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State, which have resulted in the loss of scores of innocent lives and the abduction of several residents, including schoolchildren,? Atiku said.

The ex-vice president said the scale and brazenness of the violence were deeply troubling, noting that defenceless communities had once again been subjected to brutal assaults.

?This brazen display of brutality against defenceless communities is unacceptable and profoundly disturbing,? he said.

He extended condolences to families who lost loved ones and expressed solidarity with the people and government of Niger State as they navigate the painful aftermath of the attacks.

?I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and stand in solidarity with the people and government of Niger State at this painful time,? he said.

The former vice president also called for urgent action to secure the release of those abducted, expressing particular concern for schoolchildren caught up in the violence.

?My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and those abducted, particularly the children. I urge the relevant authorities to act swiftly to ensure their safe and unconditional release,? he said.

Atiku framed the tragedy as a broader test of governance, stressing that insecurity strikes at the core responsibility of leadership and must be addressed decisively.

?The primary duty of any government is the protection of lives and property. We must urgently strengthen our security architecture, restore confidence in affected communities, and ensure that the perpetrators of these heinous crimes are brought to justice,? Atiku said.

Vanguard News

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