Former Vice President and 2023 Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has strongly denounced the tragic killing of five soldiers in Abia State, calling for immediate political intervention regarding the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
The soldiers fell victim to a fatal ambush by gunmen at a military unit situated in the Ogbor Hill area of Abia State.
This incident occurred amidst the sit-at-home order declared by IPOB, aimed at commemorating the victims of the Biafra war.
Atiku conveyed his concerns through his X Platform, emphasizing the imperative need for a political resolution to address the escalating tensions in the region.
He remarked, “The violence that led to the killing of soldiers and civilians in Abia State on Thursday stands condemned.”
He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and urged for peace to prevail.
The detrimental effects of the sit-at-home directive on students undertaking WAEC examinations in the Southeast did not escape Atiku’s attention.
He stressed the urgency of differentiating between criminal elements and legitimate agitators while advocating for transparency in tackling security challenges.
In proposing a political solution to the Nnamdi Kanu issue, Atiku asserted, “I think the time has come to explore a political resolution to the Nnamdi Kanu and other associated issues.”
He highlighted the potential of such a dialogue to alleviate the mounting pressure in the region, advocating for a constructive approach that benefits all parties involved.
Amidst Nigeria’s grappling with security concerns and socio-political tensions, Atiku’s plea for a political solution underscores the necessity of seeking diplomatic avenues to address the underlying causes of unrest in the nation’s troubled regions.