I Remain Convinced That Criminality Has No Tribe, A Killer Is A Killer, A Thief Is A Thief–Atiku
According to a report by Vanguard on Monday, August 31, 2026, former Vice-President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has faulted the administration of President Bola Tinubu over the deteriorating security situation in Benue State, arguing that Nigerians should not be made to endure the hardships associated with economic reforms while their lives remain threatened by violence.
Atiku made the remarks on Monday while receiving ADC candidates seeking various elective positions in Benue State.
He expressed concern over the persistent insecurity affecting communities across the state and linked the crisis to broader economic challenges confronting the country.
According to him, the security situation in Benue has consequences beyond the immediate loss of lives and property, particularly because of the state’s significant role in agricultural production.
He maintained that continued attacks and insecurity could undermine food production and further worsen the cost-of-living difficulties already being experienced by Nigerians.
The former vice-president argued that the government’s economic reforms should not be implemented in an environment where citizens are simultaneously exposed to insecurity and the loss of lives.
He stressed that the protection of Nigerians remained an essential responsibility of government, particularly at a time when the population was already facing economic pressure.
Atiku also referred to his previous efforts to facilitate peace between Tiv and Fulani communities, noting that he had personally participated in initiatives aimed at addressing tensions between the two groups.
He used the experience to emphasise that criminal activities should not be interpreted or categorised according to ethnic identity.
He maintained that the violence affecting Benue could be addressed if there was sufficient commitment to finding a lasting solution.
Atiku said his previous involvement in peace efforts between the Tiv and Fulani communities had reinforced his belief that criminality should be treated as criminality, regardless of the background or ethnicity of those involved.
“I know this crisis is solvable. I have helped broker peace between Tiv and Fulani communities before, and I remain convinced that criminality has no tribe. A killer is a killer. A thief is a thief,” Atiku said.
COURTESY: TheW_W
