17,000 Dead in 3 Yrs: Atiku Blames Withheld Security Funds for Rising Killings

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the Federal Government of failing to release funds approved for security agencies, saying the alleged delay has contributed to the deaths of more than 17,000 Nigerians since President Bola Tinubu assumed office.

In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) said recent comments by Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno of the All Progressives Congress (APC) support concerns previously raised by the opposition over the management of security funds.

Atiku said Senator Monguno’s remarks raised serious questions about the implementation of the national budget, the handling of government revenue and the alleged failure to release funds appropriated for security agencies despite the country’s worsening security situation.

He argued that insecurity has continued to claim thousands of lives, with many others abducted by terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups since the current administration came into office.

According to him, the victims represent families and communities whose lives have been permanently affected by violence across the country.

The former vice president said the concerns raised by Senator Monguno were significant because they came from a senior member of the ruling party rather than the opposition.

He maintained that if security agencies are unable to access funds approved by the National Assembly for equipment, intelligence gathering, logistics and operations, the government must take responsibility for the consequences.

Atiku also criticised President Tinubu’s approach to tackling insecurity, arguing that the administration has not done enough to prevent attacks despite mounting casualties.

Referring to his traditional title of Zege Mule U Tiv II, Atiku said true leadership requires protecting citizens rather than reacting after violent incidents have occurred.

He pledged that an ADC-led government would reform the country’s security system by ensuring timely release of security funds, improving intelligence gathering, deploying modern surveillance technology, strengthening border security, enhancing cooperation among security agencies, equipping personnel and establishing community-based early warning systems.

Atiku said Nigeria needs leadership that focuses on preventing attacks and safeguarding lives rather than responding after tragedies have occurred.