If I were president, I’d deploy military to clear terrorists in affected states, Atiku tells Tinubu

Former vice-president Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep shock and sadness over the reported killing of M. Uba, a brigadier general.

Uba was allegedly killed by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters following an ambush on a convoy of soldiers and operatives of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Borno state.

The terrorists ambushed the troops on Friday at Damboa Road, along Wajiroko in Borno, as they transported military equipment.

Addressing the matter via a post on X on Tuesday, Abubakar described the incident as a failure of political leadership, accusing President Bola Tinubu of focusing more on suppressing the opposition than fulfilling his role as commander-in-chief of the armed forces.

He said if he were president, he would order the military to occupy Borno or any state under siege by bandits or armed groups, until they clear those areas.

He criticised the military hierarchy for failing to provide a clear account of the incident amid initial denials.

“General Musa’s death, along with the loss of troops under his command, is one death too many and signals a bold terrorist resurgence that Nigeria cannot afford,” Abubakar said.

“To Mr. President: the security of the lives of our people is your primary responsibility and you must live up to it or be humble enough to admit incompetence and either ask for help or resign.

“If I were President, I would order the military to occupy Borno State or any state under siege by bandits or armed groups until they clear those areas. We must care enough for the men and women who put their lives on the line for our sake.”

He urged citizens and military leaders to remain hopeful, stating that “even this season shall pass away”.