Atiku Accuses Tinubu Of Failing To Protect Nigerians, Cites 638 Deaths In One Month
13th November, 2026 | News
Atiku Faults Tinubu Over Worsening Insecurity, Cites 638 Deaths and Mass Displacement
Former Vice-President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has strongly condemned President Bola Tinubu’s administration over its handling of the nation’s security crisis, pointing to soaring casualty figures and mass displacement.
In a statement issued by the Director of Strategic Communication for his campaign, Frank Shaibu, Atiku highlighted a staggering 638 security-related deaths recorded in a single month, alongside the mass flight of nearly 64,000 Nigerians seeking refuge in the neighboring Niger Republic.
Alarming Insecurity Statistics
Citing data from the Centre for Democracy and Development’s October tracker and reports by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, the opposition candidate emphasized the rapid escalation of violence across vulnerable regions:
- Death Toll Surge: Across various security incidents, the tracker recorded 640 total deaths in October, a sharp increase from the 396 fatalities noted in September.
- North East Epicenter: The North East region alone accounted for 409 deaths, underscoring the severe security deficit in the area.
- Cross-Border Displacement: According to United Nations figures, close to 64,000 individuals have fled northern Nigeria for the Niger Republic since the beginning of 2026, with several hundred others crossing into Benin.
“These figures are a devastating indictment of the security situation in our country. Behind every number is a Nigerian whose life has been lost, a family in mourning or a community forced to abandon its home. Nigerians should not have to flee across our borders to find safety,” Atiku stated.
Demands for Accountability and Action
Atiku criticized the federal government for failing in its primary constitutional duty to protect citizens, urging President Tinubu to abandon excuses and take direct responsibility for the crisis.
The ADC presidential candidate outlined immediate steps the administration must take, including:
- Strengthening military and security operations in heavily affected regions.
- Providing robust support and humanitarian aid for internally and externally displaced families.
- Collaborating closely with neighboring countries and international humanitarian organizations.
- Delivering a transparent account to Nigerians on actionable steps being taken to halt the ongoing killings.
The statement adds to mounting pressure on the federal government from international observers, local youth councils, and political opponents regarding the persistent security challenges facing northern and central Nigeria.