Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticized the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following the abduction of close family members of former Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, describing the incident as further evidence of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.
The victims, identified as Adelabu’s sister and twin nephews, were reportedly kidnapped in broad daylight at the busy Challenge area of Ibadan, Oyo State. The incident has sparked fresh concerns about the growing wave of kidnappings and violent crimes across the country.
Atiku Raises Alarm Over Growing Insecurity
Reacting to the development through a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku expressed sympathy with the Adelabu family and condemned the brazen nature of the attack.
According to the former Vice President, the kidnapping occurring in one of Ibadan’s busiest commercial locations demonstrates how criminal groups are becoming increasingly bold and fearless.
He noted that the incident should serve as a wake-up call to government officials, stressing that insecurity is no longer limited to ordinary citizens but is now affecting individuals connected to the nation’s political and administrative elite.
”No One Is Safe” – Atiku
Atiku argued that kidnappers do not discriminate based on political affiliation, social status, or occupation. He emphasized that the same criminal networks terrorizing farmers, traders, students, and travelers are now targeting families linked to senior government figures.
The former presidential candidate stated that the attack highlights the urgent need for a more effective and intelligence-driven security strategy to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Concerns Over Nigeria’s Security Situation
Nigeria has witnessed an increase in kidnapping cases in recent years, with criminal gangs targeting schools, highways, rural communities, and urban centers. Security analysts have repeatedly called for stronger intelligence gathering, improved law enforcement coordination, and enhanced community policing initiatives.
Atiku lamented that many Nigerian families now live in fear, while businesses and economic activities continue to suffer due to insecurity.
He warned that a government that struggles to protect its citizens risks losing public confidence and undermining national development efforts.
Call for Immediate Rescue of Victims
The former Vice President urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of Adelabu’s family members and bring the perpetrators to justice.
He also called on the Federal Government to implement comprehensive security reforms aimed at dismantling kidnapping syndicates, protecting vulnerable communities, and restoring public trust in Nigeria’s security institutions.
National Concern Beyond Politics
Observers say the latest kidnapping incident has once again brought national attention to the challenges facing Nigeria’s security architecture. Many citizens and civil society groups continue to demand stronger measures to address banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality affecting different parts of the country.
As investigations continue, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how security agencies respond and whether the incident leads to renewed efforts to strengthen public safety across the country.