Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar Issues Stern Warning on Banditry Crisis
Former Vice President of Nigeria and prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has issued an urgent message to all Nigerians, expressing grave concern over the escalating banditry and violence across the country. In a statement released on January 21, 2026, from Abuja and signed by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku highlighted the persistent attacks that continue to plague communities despite reported peace initiatives.
Growing Audacity of Bandits Amidst Failed Negotiations
Atiku Abubakar raised the alarm over what he described as the increasing boldness of bandits who carry out attacks with little to no meaningful resistance from authorities. He specifically referenced the recent assault on the Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where residents were reportedly attacked and taken hostage. This incident, according to Atiku, underscores a troubling trend where violent acts persist unabated, even as some state governments claim success in peace deals with criminal groups.
"It is colossally embarrassing to see non-state actors holding the country hostage and attacking people and taking hostages again and again unchallenged," Atiku stated, emphasizing the severity of the situation. He criticized the effectiveness of negotiations with bandits, arguing that such arrangements often weaken the authority of the state rather than restore lasting peace. Atiku pointed out that deterrence becomes impossible when governors are "on their knees begging bandits in the name of peace deals."
Call for Proactive Security Measures and Accountability
While clarifying that he is not opposed to dialogue in principle, Atiku Abubakar warned against allowing criminals to dictate the terms of engagement. "I am not against negotiations to end the violence, but I will not accept a situation where bandits dictate peace deals on their own terms," he asserted. He added that these agreements typically favor the perpetrators over their victims and have repeatedly undermined government efforts to combat insecurity.
Atiku also faulted what he described as a reactive approach to security, urging authorities to take decisive action before attacks occur. "The government does not have to wait until bandits launch attacks before responding," he stressed. He noted that Nigerians are no longer satisfied with official statements condemning violence and are demanding tangible results instead of rhetoric. Drawing from past experiences, Atiku argued that verbal condemnations alone have failed to deter criminal groups, stating, "If rhetoric were enough to stop banditry, this menace would have ended a long time ago."
Holding the Tinubu Administration to Account
The ADC chieftain further insisted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must be held accountable for its campaign promises on security. Atiku emphasized that Nigerians cannot be comforted by excuses and that the current government should be subject to the same rigorous standards it once applied as an opposition party. "As a former opposition party, the APC held the government of the day to the harshest standards, and the Tinubu administration must be held to the same standards," he declared.
This urgent message from Atiku Abubakar comes at a critical time as the nation grapples with ongoing security challenges. His call for a shift from rhetoric to action resonates with many Nigerians who seek effective solutions to the banditry crisis. The former vice president's remarks highlight the need for strengthened state authority, proactive security strategies, and unwavering accountability from leadership to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.
