President Bola Tinubu has expressed his firm resolve to address the actions of violent non-state actors following the recent tragic events in Abia State, where five soldiers were brutally killed.
Tinubu characterized this incident as a “treasonable offense” that cannot be tolerated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to restoring security and order.
In a strong statement released on Saturday, President Tinubu highlighted the capacity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and its armed forces to decisively deal with such threats. “I want to make it clear that the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the armed forces can crush violent non-state actors, making our communities unsafe,” he asserted.
The attack occurred at Obikabia Junction in the Ogbor Hill area of Aba, Abia State. Gunmen stormed a military unit, killing five soldiers and six civilians in an assault blamed on suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB). The attackers also set fire to the military unit and a patrol van.
While some soldiers managed to escape, the incident has left a profound impact on the community and the nation.
Reflecting on the incident, President Tinubu expressed his deep sorrow, noting that this attack came shortly after a similar one in Okuama, Delta State. He condemned the attacks as “unwarranted, barbaric and evil acts” that must never be tolerated in Nigeria.
“Our soldiers and the police have the onerous duty to protect all of us from aggressors and non-state actors. Hundreds of them have paid the ultimate price in fulfilment of their duty, while some have experienced the indignity of being manhandled by the people they protect.
They surely do not deserve the mindless attacks by unruly elements in our society,” Tinubu stated.
The President underscored that the federal government will take a tough stance against those who habitually attack military and police personnel. “On no account should anyone, under any guise, have the audacity to kill agents of state,” he warned.
Tinubu also called on security agencies to not only apprehend those directly responsible for the attack in Aba but also to target those inciting violence and calling for civil disobedience. He emphasized that their actions amount to treason.
He cautioned against interpreting the security forces’ necessary restraint as a sign of weakness, urging a robust response to such provocations. Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, their colleagues, and the leadership of the armed forces.
He encouraged other members of the armed forces to remain resolute and undeterred in their peacekeeping duties despite the tragic incident.
“While my condolences go to the families of the five slain soldiers, their colleagues, and the leadership of our armed forces, I urge other men and women on peacekeeping duty not to be discouraged by the unfortunate incident in Aba,” he conveyed.
President Tinubu’s response underscores a critical juncture in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with non-state actors and violent groups. His firm stance and call for decisive action reflect the government’s broader strategy to ensure national security and stability. The tragic events in Abia State serve as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by the nation’s security personnel and the challenges they face in maintaining peace and order.
Tinubu’s commitment to clamping down on these violent elements aims to reassure the nation of the government’s dedication to safeguarding its citizens and maintaining the rule of law.
