Atiku Accuses Tinubu Administration of Targeting Opposition While Militias and Insecurity Spread Across Nigeria!
Reported by Mustapha Labake Omowumi (journalist) | Sele Media Africa
Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of concentrating political pressure on opposition figures rather than confronting the growing threat posed by militias, insurgents, and armed groups across the country.
In a strongly worded statement released on social media, the opposition leader expressed concern that Nigeria’s security crisis continues to worsen while political tensions deepen. His remarks followed reports of a deadly attack in northeastern Borno State, where suspected insurgents targeted a military facility and an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp in the town of Ngoshe, located in Gwoza Local Government Area.
According to local reports, the assault left numerous civilians abducted and heightened fears about the persistence of insurgent violence in the region.
Security Concerns and Political Accusations
Reacting to the incident, Atiku described the situation as “deeply troubling,” arguing that the federal government’s response to recurring attacks and kidnappings has been inadequate.
He alleged that instead of prioritizing security reforms and decisive action against armed groups, the current administration appears focused on consolidating political power and exerting pressure on opposition voices.
“It is unfortunate that the federal government seems to be losing its grip on the fight against terrorism and violent attacks,” Atiku said, warning that continued political distraction could weaken national efforts to address insecurity.
The former vice president also claimed that political actors aligned with the ruling party are devoting significant energy to weakening opposition structures, even as communities across northern and central Nigeria face persistent threats from insurgents, bandits, and militias.
A Country Grappling With Multiple Security Threats
Nigeria has faced years of complex security challenges, including jihadist insurgency in the northeast, banditry and mass kidnappings in the northwest, and communal violence across parts of the Middle Belt.
Security analysts say the evolving landscape of armed groups ranging from extremist insurgents to ethnic militias and criminal gangs has stretched the capacity of security agencies.
Critics of the federal government argue that a coordinated national security strategy is urgently needed to restore public confidence and protect vulnerable communities. Supporters of the administration, however, maintain that the government has continued to strengthen military operations and intelligence coordination against armed groups.
Political Climate Ahead of Future Elections
Atiku’s remarks come amid rising political friction between Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), particularly as political actors begin positioning ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Observers note that accusations of political intimidation and claims of opposition interference have become recurring themes in Nigeria’s political discourse. Analysts warn that maintaining democratic institutions and protecting political pluralism will be critical for the country’s long-term stability.
Despite the sharp criticism, the federal government has consistently maintained that it remains committed to strengthening national security and upholding democratic governance.
Broader Implications for Governance
Political analysts say the exchange highlights the delicate balance between national security priorities and political competition in Africa’s most populous country.
For many Nigerians, the overriding concern remains whether government and political leaders across party lines can cooperate to address insecurity, economic pressures, and governance challenges facing the country.
Sources: THISDAY, Vanguard Nigeria, Reuters, BBC News, Al Jazeera
Mustapha Labake Omowumi is a journalist from Ibadan, Oyo State, and a graduate of the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics and Mathematics. He demonstrates a strong commitment to professional journalism, with a keen interest in writing and storytelling, guided by principles of self-discipline, accuracy, and trustworthiness.
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