Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has questioned why President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not learning from the tactics of terrorists. Atiku noted that terrorists continuously study their successes and failures, refine their methods, identify vulnerabilities, and adapt after every attack.
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku lamented that the expansion of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping across Nigeria is clear evidence that the current counterterrorism framework is failing to evolve as rapidly as the threats it aims to defeat.
Atiku Criticizes Government's Response to Insecurity
Atiku pointed out that Nigeria's counterterrorism efforts have relied on centrally designed plans that do not adapt to changing circumstances. He stated, "The terrorists are learning from every attack. They study their successes and failures. They refine their tactics. They identify vulnerabilities. They adapt and strike again. The question Nigerians must ask is simple: Why isn't the government doing the same?"
He criticized the pattern of mourning, making promises, setting up committees, and moving on after each attack, without implementing effective changes. Atiku emphasized, "A nation that refuses to learn from its tragedies is condemned to relive them."
The former vice president highlighted the disturbing expansion of banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping across different regions, from Chibok to Oyo, and from the North-West to the Middle Belt, as evidence that the counterterrorism framework is no longer adequate for the scale and complexity of the challenge.
Atiku's Previous Criticisms of Tinubu's Government
This is not the first time Atiku has criticized the federal government's handling of security. He previously condemned the response to the Oyo school abduction and faulted the distribution of rice to affected families instead of focusing on rescue operations and prosecutions.
Atiku has also spoken out against the abduction of Adebayo Adelabu's sister and children, calling for immediate action and freedom for the captives. He urged the government to adopt a proactive, intelligence-driven security strategy to combat growing crime and restore public safety.
Atiku's statements reflect deep concern over Nigeria's persistent issues with banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism, and he continues to call for a more adaptive and effective approach to national security.
