The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark has described the death of former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd) in the custody of his abductors as a national tragedy and a painful reminder of the worsening security situation in the country.
Senator Mark, a retired Brigadier General of the Nigerian Army, was seen to be emotionally charged while reacting to the development. He lamented that Nigerians have become endangered in their own country as a result of the persistent threats of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes. Sunday Guardian reports.
•Maj Gen Rabe Abubakar (retd)
He said the loss of a renowned military officer who dedicated his life to serving the nation, is a stark reminder of the urgent need to conduct a comprehensive assessment of Nigeria’s security architecture.
“The death of Major General Rabe Abubakar in captivity is not just a loss to his family and the military community but a tragedy for the nation. It is a significant issue for the security and safety of every person of Nigeria.”
Insecurity has continued to grow over the decade hurting all segments of the population, the former Senate President said.
He, therefore, urged Nigerians to come together to fight terrorism, banditry, abduction and other forms of criminality endangering the peace and stability of the nation.
“What next for the ordinary citizen if pupils and teachers are not safe in schools, criminals are invading our homes, places of worship are no longer safe and our roads have become dangerous corridors?,” he said.
The ADC chairman in a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Kola Ologbodiyan stated that Nigeria, which was the glory of Africa, is progressively losing its place because of the incapacity to guarantee the protection of people and property.
“It is time for the country to go back to the drawing board and find the root causes of insecurity and put in place practical and lasting solutions to restore public confidence and national cohesion,” he said.
Senator Mark however, was optimistic that with drive, sincerity of purpose and collective commitment, Nigeria may surmount her security issues and regain her rightful place among the comity of nations, notwithstanding the bleak scenario.
He also offered his profound sympathies to the family of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other victims of banditry and kidnapping across the country.
Senator Mark also asked governments at all levels to step up to the challenges of insecurity by mobilising the needed resources to stop the issue.
“The first duty of government is the safety and well-being of the people. We need to act now, before more innocent lives are lost,” he said.
About the Author
