Atiku slams Tinubu over insecurity, demands rescue of abducted corps members

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has lashed out at President Bola Tinubu’s administration over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, calling for the immediate rescue of prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and other travellers abducted in Imo State.

Atiku described the kidnapping of 20 travellers, including prospective corps members, as heartbreaking, noting that although some victims had regained their freedom, several others remained in captivity.

The former vice president, in a statement shared on his social media accounts on Monday, October 5, 2026, urged the Federal Government, the Imo State Government, and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of those still being held.

He also expressed concern over the continued captivity of more than 70 pupils and students abducted from Mussa and Lassa communities in Borno State, saying they must not be forgotten.

Atiku stated: “The abduction of 20 travellers, including prospective corps members, in Imo State is heartbreaking. Some have been rescued, but others remain in captivity. I urge the Federal and Imo State governments, and all security agencies, to act with urgency and bring everyone still being held home safely.

“In Borno, more than 70 pupils and students abducted from Mussa and Lassa remain in captivity months later. These children must not be forgotten. Their families deserve clear updates, and the public deserves answers.”

Atiku argued that the continued wave of kidnappings contradicted Tinubu’s promise that savings from the removal of fuel subsidy would strengthen security across the country.

The ADC candidate further criticised the allocation of pipeline security contracts, alleging that politically connected companies were benefiting while ordinary citizens continued to bear the burden of insecurity.

IEDs block rescue as drone locates NYSC abductors’ camp — Imo CP

Atiku said: “Tinubu promised that savings from subsidy removal would help fund security. Yet Nigerians remain exposed to kidnappers on our roads, in our communities and around our schools.

“Young people face danger in secondary school, struggle with unaffordable fees at university, and are now targets on their journeys to NYSC camps. This is a generation being failed at every stage.

“Meanwhile, huge pipeline security contracts go to politically connected companies, while ordinary Nigerians are left to face criminals. The first duty of government is to protect lives.”

Atiku prayed for the safe return of all abducted victims and reaffirmed his commitment to building a Nigeria where citizens, especially young people, can live, work and pursue their aspirations without fear.

“While we pray for the immediate and safe rescue of every abducted young person and the return of all those still unaccounted for, my promise to build a safer and more affordable Nigeria, where young people can create, build and prosper, remains unshakable,” he added.