Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over the recent surge in terrorist activities in the north-east region, urging the federal government to take decisive action to prevent a return to widespread violence and extremism.
In a post on his X Page on Sunday, Abubakar condemned the multiple suicide attacks that occurred on Saturday at various locations, including a wedding reception and a burial ceremony in Gwoza town, Borno state.
The attacks reportedly killed 18 people and injured over 16 others.
“It is a sad development that the ugly incidents of terrorism are resurfacing and, indeed, metastasising in the North-East,” Abubakar wrote.
“The reported attack by suicide bombers at a wedding reception, funeral procession, and a hospital on Saturday stands condemned.”
Abubakar attributed the resurgence of terrorist attacks to what he described as the government’s “lacklustre posture” in maintaining a strong presence on the frontlines. He emphasized the importance of federal authorities taking swift action to prevent the region from reverting to a hotbed of terrorism and extreme violence.
“It is unfortunate that much of the pushback that had been achieved against the Boko Haram terror sect is being cancelled, owing mainly to the government’s lacklustre posture to hold firmly on the frontline,” he stated.
“It is thus important to call on the federal authorities to wake up to their responsibility and to make sure that the North-East does not slide back into a theatre of terrorism and extreme violence.”
Abubakar extended his condolences to the families of the victims, offering prayers for the souls of the departed.
“My condolences go to the families of victims of these attacks, and it is my prayer that God grants a peaceful repose to the souls of the departed.”
This incident follows a similar attack in March 2024, when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated near a mosque in Biu LGA of Borno state, injuring two people.