Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called on the federal government to prevent the north-east region from sliding back into terrorism and extreme violence.

In a post on his X Page on Sunday, Abubakar condemned the multiple suicide attacks that occurred on Saturday in various locations, including a wedding reception and a burial ceremony in Gwoza town, Borno State. The attacks resulted in the deaths of seven people and injuries to over 16 others after two suspected suicide bombers targeted wedding guests at Marrarraban Gwoza.

Abubakar attributed the increase in terrorist attacks to the government’s “lacklustre posture” in maintaining strong frontlines. “It is a sad development that the ugly incidents of terrorism are resurfacing and, indeed, metastasising in the North-East,” he wrote. He specifically condemned the attacks on the wedding reception, funeral procession, and hospital on Saturday, emphasizing the regression in the fight against Boko Haram due to the government’s failure to maintain a firm stance.

He urged the federal authorities to fulfill their responsibilities to ensure the North-East does not revert to a state of terrorism and extreme violence. “My condolences go to the families of victims of these attacks, and it is my prayer that God grants a peaceful repose to the souls of the departed,” Abubakar added.