Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the death of former House of Representatives member, Abba Adamu, who reportedly died while in the custody of kidnappers after being abducted along the Abuja–Kaduna highway.

Essential News reports that Adamu was kidnapped by bandits on May 3 and died nine days later despite efforts by his family to secure his release.

Atiku Faults Security Under Tinubu Government

Reacting in a statement issued in Abuja through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku blamed the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for worsening insecurity in the country.

He described the incident as both a personal tragedy and a reflection of what he called a broader failure of government responsibility to protect citizens.

“Adamu’s death is yet another grim reminder of the worsening collapse of security under the Tinubu administration,” the statement read.

Atiku questioned the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security framework, arguing that if a former federal lawmaker could be kidnapped and killed, ordinary citizens are even more vulnerable.

‘Nigeria Is Under Siege’

The former vice president claimed that insecurity has become widespread across the country, affecting highways, rural communities, farms, and urban areas.

He said the situation reflects a consistent pattern rather than isolated incidents.

“This is no longer about isolated incidents. It is now a horrifying pattern,” Atiku stated.

He further argued that Nigerians now live in constant fear while economic activities such as farming and trade continue to suffer due to insecurity.

Criticism of Abuja–Kaduna Highway Security

Atiku specifically referenced the Abuja–Kaduna corridor, describing it as one of the country’s most dangerous routes despite repeated government promises to secure it.

He questioned the effectiveness of security spending and accused the government of failing to deliver meaningful results despite what he described as huge budget allocations.

“It is particularly tragic that the Abuja-Kaduna corridor and surrounding routes have remained notorious theatres of terror,” he said.

Call for Accountability and Action

The former vice president demanded clearer explanations from the Federal Government regarding its security strategy and urged it to take urgent and measurable action.

“Nigerians deserve answers. What exactly is the security strategy of this administration? Where is the urgency? Where is the accountability?” he asked.

Atiku added that condolence messages were not enough, insisting that Nigerians needed concrete results and improved security performance.

“A government that cannot secure its highways cannot claim to govern,” he said.

The incident has once again intensified public debate over Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly along major highways that have become frequent targets for kidnappers and armed groups.