Atiku Abubakar urges President Tinubu to prioritize national security over political campaigning following Oyo abduction rescue

Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, has criticized President Bola Tinubu for allegedly prioritizing political campaigning for the 2027 presidential election over national security, particularly in the wake of the rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. While commending the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for the successful rescue operation, Atiku stated that the incident highlighted a failure of political leadership at the highest level. He argued that the President, as Commander-in-Chief, should have personally addressed the nation alongside defense chiefs to brief Nigerians on the operation, acknowledge the troops' bravery, and reassure families, instead of engaging in political activities. Atiku emphasized that the protection of lives and property should be the primary campaign of any responsible administration, and that politics can wait when citizens' lives are at stake. He also cautioned against premature celebration, noting that many Nigerians remain in captivity, and called for sustained military pressure until all abducted individuals are freed and communities are restored to peace.