Atiku Alleges Delayed Security Funding Fuels Rising Killings in Nigeria
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has alleged that the failure to release approved security funds has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, claiming that more than 17,000 people have lost their lives since President Bola Tinubu assumed office.
The allegation was contained in a statement issued by Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, following recent remarks by Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to Atiku, Senator Monguno’s comments reinforce concerns that have repeatedly been raised about the implementation of security budgets and the management of public finances.
Atiku Links Funding Delays to Insecurity
The former vice president argued that independent conflict monitoring groups estimate that over 17,000 Nigerians have been killed in violent attacks during the current administration, while thousands of others have been kidnapped by terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups.
He described the victims as ordinary Nigerians whose deaths have left countless families devastated.
According to him, the issue extends beyond statistics, stressing that every casualty represents a family that has suffered an irreplaceable loss.
Questions Over Security Budget Implementation
Atiku said the concerns surrounding budget implementation can no longer be dismissed as political criticism because they have now been echoed by a senior member of the ruling party.
He noted that Senator Monguno questioned why funds approved by the National Assembly were allegedly not being released as required, despite increasing security challenges across the country.
The former vice president also referenced concerns over the reported retention of federally generated revenue and the alleged failure to release capital funds needed by security agencies to acquire equipment, improve intelligence gathering, and strengthen operations.
According to Atiku, if security institutions do not receive funds already approved by law, the government must accept responsibility for the consequences affecting national security.
Criticism of Tinubu’s Security Approach
Atiku criticized President Tinubu’s handling of insecurity, arguing that the administration has focused more on reacting to attacks than preventing them.
He recalled that Tinubu had strongly criticized previous governments over insecurity before becoming president and said Nigerians now expect stronger action to protect lives and property.
Referencing his traditional title, Zege Mule U Tiv II, Atiku said true leadership requires standing with the people during difficult times rather than observing events from the sidelines.
Security Reforms Promised
The former vice president said that an administration led by him under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) would introduce major reforms to Nigeria’s security system.
Among the measures he listed were:
- Timely release and transparent management of security funds.
- Intelligence-led policing and improved information gathering.
- Deployment of modern surveillance technology.
- Stronger border security measures.
- Better cooperation among security agencies.
- Improved welfare, training, and equipment for security personnel.
- Community-based early warning systems to prevent attacks before they occur.
Call for Proactive Leadership
Atiku concluded by saying Nigeria requires leadership that prioritizes protecting citizens before violence occurs rather than responding after tragedies have happened.
He maintained that improving accountability in security funding and strengthening operational capacity would be critical steps toward reducing insecurity across the country.
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