Atiku condemns killing of 32 Nigerians in Sokoto

By Taiwo Scholarstica

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar has condemned the killing of 32 residents of the Ungushi community in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State, describing the incident as another painful reminder of the worsening security situation in parts of the country.

Atiku, in a statement, expressed sadness over the reported killings and sympathised with the families of the victims, as well as the people of Sokoto State.

“I am devastated by the killing of 32 innocent Nigerians in Ungushi community, Kebbe LGA of Sokoto State,” Atiku said.

He prayed for the repose of the souls of those killed and asked Allah to give their families the strength to cope with the loss.

“My heart goes out to the bereaved families and the people of Sokoto State. May Allah forgive the departed and give their loved ones the strength to endure this unbearable loss,” he added.

However, Atiku said that condolences from government officials were no longer enough in the face of repeated attacks and killings across the country.

He questioned how many more Nigerians would have to lose their lives before the government treats the protection of citizens as an urgent national priority.

“But condolences are no longer enough. How many more Nigerians must be slaughtered before this government treats the protection of human life as an emergency?” he asked.

The former Vice President said the recurrence of attacks was becoming increasingly disturbing, stressing that the government must do more than issue statements after deadly incidents.

According to him, authorities have a responsibility to prevent attacks, protect vulnerable communities, and ensure that those behind the killings are identified and prosecuted.

“These killings have become frighteningly recurrent, and a government that cannot protect its citizens must not become comfortable issuing statements after every massacre,” Atiku said.

He called on the Federal Government to strengthen its intelligence-gathering capabilities and improve security around communities considered vulnerable to attacks.

Atiku also urged security agencies to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice, arguing that failure to do so could further weaken public confidence in the government’s ability to protect lives.

“The Federal Government must move from condolences to action: strengthen intelligence, secure vulnerable communities, and bring the perpetrators to justice,” he said.

He maintained that the protection of citizens remains the most fundamental responsibility of any government, adding that Nigerians should not continue to lose their loved ones while those responsible for their security offer explanations after attacks have occurred.

“The first duty of government is to protect life,” Atiku said.

He further called for renewed efforts to restore peace across the country, particularly in communities affected by persistent insecurity.

“Nigerians cannot continue to bury their loved ones while those entrusted with their security offer excuses,” he added.
Atiku concluded by praying for comfort for the people of Sokoto State and peace across Nigeria.