The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep grief over the killing of 32 Nigerians in Ungushi community, Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State, calling on the Federal Government to take urgent and decisive action to halt the recurring attacks across the country.
Atiku made the call in a statement posted on his official X account on Monday, August 17, 2026, while commiserating with the families of the victims and the people of Sokoto State over the tragic incident.
Expressing his sadness over the killings, the former Vice President said Nigerians could no longer afford a situation where condolences are repeatedly offered after communities have been attacked and lives lost.
“I am devastated by the killing of 32 innocent Nigerians in Ungushi community, Kebbe LGA of Sokoto State,” Atiku wrote.
He questioned how many more Nigerians would have to lose their lives before the government treats the protection of citizens as an urgent national priority.
“But condolences are no longer enough. How many more Nigerians must be slaughtered before this government treats the protection of human life as an emergency?” he asked.
Atiku urged the Federal Government to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve security operations, particularly in vulnerable communities that remain exposed to attacks by criminal elements.
He also called for the perpetrators of the killings to be identified, arrested and brought to justice, stressing that protecting citizens remains one of the fundamental responsibilities of government.
“The first duty of government is to protect life. Nigerians cannot continue to bury their loved ones while those entrusted with their security offer excuses,” he stated.
The ADC presidential candidate's reaction comes amid continuing concerns over insecurity in several parts of the country, with communities repeatedly calling for stronger security presence, better intelligence and more effective measures to prevent attacks.
Atiku further urged the government to move beyond expressions of sympathy and take concrete steps capable of restoring confidence among Nigerians and ensuring that vulnerable communities are adequately protected.