Biafra Day: Atiku Condemns Killing Of Soldiers In Abia, Calls For Political Solution In South-East
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly condemned the killing of five soldiers in Abia State, Nigeria, by gunmen enforcing a sit-at-home order issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to commemorate Biafra Heroes Day. Atiku expressed his condolences to the families of the slain soldiers and the Nigerian military, denouncing the violent attack.
He emphasized the need for a political resolution to address the issues associated with Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of IPOB, and other related matters in order to calm the crisis in the Southeast region. Atiku urged the federal government to engage in dialogue rather than relying solely on military action. He also stressed the importance of distinguishing between criminal elements and legitimate agitators within the region.
Atiku expressed concern over the impact of the sit-at-home order on students who were scheduled to write their West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams in the Southeast region, highlighting the broader consequences of such actions.
He called for transparency in security operations to identify and separate criminal elements from those legitimately advocating for their cause. Atiku proposed that a political approach could lead to a mutually beneficial resolution for all parties involved, suggesting that it could defuse tensions in the region.
The former presidential candidate urged a nuanced approach that takes into account the complex socio-political dynamics of the Southeast region, emphasizing the importance of addressing grievances through dialogue and negotiation rather than solely through military means.
In addition to condemning the violence and advocating for a political solution, Atiku also touched on the economic impact of the unrest, noting the potential for further destabilization if the underlying issues are not addressed promptly and effectively.
Atiku’s statement underscores the need for a holistic approach that combines security measures with political dialogue to address the root causes of the conflict in the Southeast region. He emphasizes the importance of engaging with all stakeholders, including legitimate representatives of the region’s grievances, to find a lasting solution.
By calling for a political resolution, Atiku aligns himself with those who believe that dialogue and negotiation offer the best path forward in resolving the complex and longstanding issues in the Southeast region. He advocates for a more nuanced and inclusive approach that recognizes the legitimate grievances of the people while also addressing security concerns.
Overall, Atiku’s statement reflects a recognition of the need for a comprehensive strategy that addresses both the immediate security challenges and the underlying socio-political grievances driving the conflict in the Southeast region of Nigeria.
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