Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has slammed the Bola Tinubu administration over the release of abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State, insisting that their return should not be celebrated as an achievement.

In a statement released by his media office on Wednesday, Atiku described the development as “not a trophy moment” but proof that terrorists now operate freely, negotiate openly, and dictate terms while the government issues press statements to save face.

His remarks were a direct response to comments made by Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, during an interview on Arise News TV on Monday.

Onanuga had praised the Department of State Services (DSS) and the military for tracking the kidnappers in real time and establishing contact, claiming the girls were rescued without ransom.

He argued that although security agencies possess critical intelligence, their hands are often tied because the kidnappers hide among civilians, making direct attacks risky.

According to him, security agencies know the bandits operating in that axis but must act carefully to avoid harming innocent Nigerians in the process.

Atiku, however, maintained that the release of the girls is not a sign of progress, but a harsh reminder that Nigeria’s security system is crumbling, leaving children vulnerable to terrorists who continue to walk free.

As Atiku’s criticism continues to spark nationwide debate, one thing remains clear: until kidnappers are arrested and punished, every “rescue” will feel less like a victory and more like a painful reminder of Nigeria’s security failures.