Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Atiku Abubakar, has said Nigeria needs security reform, calling for a stronger focus on intelligence, technology, and preventive measures to address terrorism and banditry in the country.
Atiku made the remarks while reacting to reports of the rescue of 360 persons abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State, describing the operation as a welcome development that brought relief to victims and their families after months of captivity since March.
He noted that the successful rescue highlights the efforts and sacrifices of the military and other security agencies involved in the operation, whom he commended for ensuring the safe return of the abductees.
In a statement shared via his social media handle on Monday, the former vice president expressed confidence in the capacity of the Nigerian military to end the nearly two-decade-long insurgency if adequately supported with modern equipment, resources, and strong political leadership.
He stressed that sustained success in the fight against insecurity would depend largely on the availability of necessary tools and a coordinated national strategy.
While acknowledging the rescue, Atiku warned that Nigeria still faces widespread security threats, urging the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of other abducted citizens.
According to the statement, “Even as this brings to an end the ordeal of the abductees and the anguish of their loved ones since they were abducted in March, we are still faced with threats from terrorism and banditry attacks.
“I acknowledge the role of the military and all other security agencies that were involved in the safe rescue of the Ngoshe abductees.
“I am confident that if provided with the necessary tools and much-needed political leadership, the military will bring to an end the nearly two decades of insurgency.
“Even as we savour this rescue, I urge the government and the military to intensify efforts to rescue nearly 100 school children and teachers abducted in Oriire, Oyo State and Mussa, Borno State and all other Nigerians still in the custody of terrorists and bandits.
“More importantly, I call for a rejig of our security architecture that places emphasis on intelligence, technology and preemptive actions that nips in the bud terrorist and banditry attacks before they are carried out. -AA