Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration over its handling of the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State, urging the government to prioritise the safe return of the victims rather than offering relief materials to affected communities.
Atiku said the primary responsibility of any government is to protect the lives and safety of its citizens, stressing that no amount of palliatives or food aid can replace the trauma endured by families whose children remain in captivity.
“Bring the abducted children back home, not bags of rice,” Atiku said, condemning what he described as a misplaced response to a growing security crisis.
The former vice president called on security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and ensure the immediate and unconditional release of the kidnapped pupils, while demanding greater accountability from the federal government in tackling insecurity across the country.
His remarks come amid mounting public concern over recurring cases of mass abductions targeting schools and communities, raising fresh questions about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security architecture.
