Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the federal government for its apparent indifference to the escalating issue of banditry, despite substantial budget allocations for security.

Atiku’s remarks came on Tuesday in response to the recent killings in Gidan Boka and Dan Nakwabo, Kankara LGA of Katsina state.

Reports indicate that bandits attacked the two villages on Sunday afternoon.

The assailants killed 15 residents in Gidan Boka village and another five in Dan Nakwabo.

Abubakar Sadiq, Katsina police spokesperson, stated on Monday that the bandits also killed four officers—three inspectors and one corporal—along with two members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps (KSCWC).

Reacting to the incident on his X page, Atiku lamented that banditry and terrorism have become routine in Nigeria.

“I am deeply saddened by reports of the attack on Yargoje village in Kankara LGA of Katsina State, which claimed numerous lives and led to the kidnapping of vulnerable women and children,” Atiku wrote.

“It is also distressing that bandits ambushed the police armoured personnel carrier responding to the distress call at Gidan Tofa and Dan Nakwabo villages, resulting in the deaths of four police officers and two members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps.

“What concerns me most is that these acts of banditry and terrorism have become routine, with the government appearing helpless and indifferent despite the significant annual budget for defense.”

The former vice-president urged the federal government to ensure the protection of citizens’ lives and property.

“While I sympathize with the families of the victims, I once again call on the government to fulfill its responsibility of protecting the lives and property of the citizens,” he said.