By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja
Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has harped on the pertinent need for the government in the country to uphold its duty to protect its citizens.
This, Atiku maintained, is the ultimate essence of national security.
The former Vice President said this in his reaction to the Jilli market, (a Borno-Yobe border market) airstrike
that killed scores of innocent traders, which he described as not just tragic, but a devastating failure that must outrage every conscience.
Over 50 were reportedly killed in the said accidental bombing at the market.
According to Atiku, “The Jilli market airstrike that killed scores of innocent traders is not just tragic, but a devastating failure that must outrage every conscience.
“While targeting insurgents, innocent Nigerians were once again reduced to collateral damage.
“How long will citizens remain unsafe both from terrorists and from the very operations meant to protect them?
“Just a few days ago, the United States deployed over 150 aircraft and spent an estimated $300 million to rescue just one pilot in Iran, even destroying equipment worth over $100 million each to protect a single life.
“That is the value they place on one citizen. Here at home, we must ask: what is the value of Nigerian lives? “This demands urgent review, accountability, and decisive action to prevent a recurrence.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families and affected communities.
“Nigeria must uphold its duty to protect its citizen. That is the ultimate essence of National Security”, he said.
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