A former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep concern over a series of deadly attacks in Adamawa State, which claimed more than 20 lives in recent days.

The incidents, which took place in Madagali and Hong Local Government Areas, underscore the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria’s North-East region.

Atiku, a former Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential candidate and influential political figure, made his reaction known on his official X account on Friday, highlighting both the human toll of the attacks and the broader implications for regional stability.

In his post, Atiku partly wrote, “I am deeply moved by the tragic attacks in Adamawa State, where gunmen killed over 20 people in a market in Madagali and Hong local government areas.”

Highlighting the broader impact of the attacks, Atiku further stated, “The attack not only highlights the worsening insecurity in the country but also deepens the North-East crisis.”

Urging prompt and decisive action from authorities, Atiku added, “I urge the authorities to redouble their efforts to address this menace, ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice, and strengthen security to prevent future attacks.”

PUNCH Online reports that Adamawa State has long been a frontline in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency, with the state government and security agencies struggling to contain attacks that target civilians, local markets, and schools. In recent years, the North-East has seen repeated assaults that disrupt economic activity and displace thousands of residents.

Madagali and Hong, like many parts of Adamawa State, have been vulnerable to raids and attacks over the past decade, largely due to the activities of Boko Haram and splinter groups that exploit porous borders and limited security infrastructure.

The attacks, reportedly carried out by unidentified gunmen, have drawn national attention, as the North-East continues to grapple with frequent insurgent and banditry-related violence.

Atiku’s call aligns with ongoing national discussions on improving intelligence gathering, expanding community policing, and ensuring adequate resources for the Nigerian military and paramilitary forces deployed in conflict-prone areas.

Experts have warned that without sustained interventions, attacks on civilians in markets and villages could escalate, further destabilising the North-East and straining federal and state responses.

Adamawa’s security challenges remain part of a broader regional crisis affecting neighbouring Borno, Yobe, and Taraba states, where insurgency, banditry, and communal clashes continue to threaten lives and livelihoods. (PUNCH)