Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over renewed communal violence in Lamurde, Adamawa State, calling for urgent federal and state intervention to halt the escalating conflict between the Bachama and Tsobo communities.
In a statement posted on his social media page, Atiku described the reports of bloodshed, destruction of property, and rising casualties as “harrowing,” insisting that the situation must not be allowed to deteriorate further. He urged authorities to act swiftly to protect lives and restore order.
The former vice-president also condemned reports alleging that women protesters were shot and killed by soldiers of the Nigerian Army’s 23rd Brigade in Yola. He said the allegations—despite a reported denial by the military—warrant a full, transparent, and independent investigation.
“Such an atrocity, if true, is not only shocking but an assault on our collective conscience,” he stated. “Conflicting accounts from locals and the military must not be brushed aside. Nigeria deserves answers, and the victims deserve justice.”
Atiku said whoever is responsible for the killings—civilian or military—must face the full weight of the law, especially at a time when the global community is campaigning against gender-based violence. He emphasised that the killing of women or any citizen “cannot be tolerated or excused.”
He extended condolences to the bereaved families and expressed solidarity with the Hama Bachama, His Royal Majesty Dr. Daniel Isma’ila Shaga, and the entire Bachama Kingdom.
Calling for de-escalation, Atiku appealed to both communities to step back from further confrontation and embrace dialogue. “Only peace, mutual respect, and unity can lead us out of this crisis,” he said.
