Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has called for the urgent rescue of 20 travellers, including prospective corps members, abducted in Imo State. Atiku described the abduction as heartbreaking and urged the Federal and Imo State governments and security agencies to act swiftly to bring the remaining victims home safely. He noted that some of the abducted travellers had been rescued, but others remained in captivity.
Atiku also expressed concern over more than 70 pupils and students abducted from Mussa and Lassa in Borno State who remain in captivity months later. He said these children must not be forgotten and that their families deserve clear updates, while the public deserves answers. Atiku's comments come as a reminder of the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria, particularly in the areas of kidnapping and abduction.
The former Vice President questioned the effectiveness of the government's approach to security, particularly the allocation of huge pipeline security contracts to politically connected companies. He argued that while ordinary Nigerians face criminals, the government seems to prioritize the interests of a select few. Atiku emphasized that the first duty of government is to protect lives.
Atiku also criticized the government's handling of the subsidy removal, which he claimed has not translated to improved security for Nigerians. He noted that young people face danger in secondary school, struggle with unaffordable fees at university, and are now targets on their journeys to NYSC camps. This, he said, is a generation being failed at every stage.
The abduction of the 20 travellers, including prospective corps members, occurred in Imo State, a region that has experienced significant security challenges in recent times. Atiku's call for urgent action comes as the NYSC has become a critical component of Nigeria's youth development and national service.
Atiku prayed for the immediate and safe rescue of the abducted persons and reaffirmed his commitment to building a safer and more affordable Nigeria. His comments have sparked renewed calls for the government to prioritize the security of its citizens, particularly in the face of rising kidnapping and abduction incidents.
The incident has also raised concerns about the preparedness of the NYSC to handle the security challenges faced by its members. As the government continues to grapple with the security situation, Nigerians are calling for more concrete actions to address the issue of kidnapping and abduction.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar calls for urgent rescue of 20 travellers abducted in Imo State.
- Over 70 pupils and students remain in captivity months after abduction in Borno State.
- Atiku criticizes government's approach to security and subsidy removal.
