Opposition Blasts FG Over Insecurity, Labels Tinubu’s Response “Tokenism”

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday criticized the Federal Government for its handling of Nigeria’s worsening security situation, accusing President Bola Tinubu’s administration of avoiding responsibility and relying on symbolic gestures.

The ADC specifically condemned remarks by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, who attributed recent attacks in Kebbi and Kwara states to statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump. In a statement from Abuja, ADC National Publicity Secretary Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi described the claim as a “shameful abdication of responsibility” and proof that the government is overwhelmed. “Those killing Nigerians did not need to be instigated by Trump; they were already emboldened by a government that consistently fails to act decisively,” he said.

Meanwhile, the PDP criticized President Tinubu’s decision to cancel trips to South Africa and Angola, describing it as “tokenism” rather than a substantive effort to address insecurity. The party urged the president to temporarily relocate to conflict zones such as Kebbi State, following the abduction of 25 schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State. “True leaders lead from the front,” said PDP National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong.

The attacks in Kebbi and Kwara, which included the killing of a school vice principal and several church worshippers, have intensified concerns about rising banditry and violence targeting civilians. The Senate and Kebbi State Government have condemned the attacks, calling for urgent, coordinated action to rescue abducted victims and bolster national security.