The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of being dangerously distracted by political considerations amid worsening insecurity, warning that recent actions by the United States government reflect declining international confidence in Nigeria’s ability to maintain safety.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the U.S. decision to authorize the departure of non-emergency embassy staff and their families from Abuja as more than a routine measure.According to the ADC, the move is “not merely procedural, but a clear and consequential signal of declining trust in Nigeria’s security architecture under the current leadership.”
The party also mourned the killing of Gen Oseni Omoh Braimah and other soldiers in a terrorist attack in Borno State, describing the incident as part of a troubling and recurring pattern.
“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) mourns the tragic loss of Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah and the brave soldiers of the Nigerian Army,” the statement read.“We honour their courage and their service. Behind every fallen soldier is a family permanently altered, a future cut short, and a sacrifice that can never truly be repaid. We stand in solidarity with their loved ones.” However, the party stressed that beyond the grief lies a deeper concern.
“But even as we mourn, we must confront a deeper and more troubling reality.”
Citing developments as of April 9, 2026, the ADC pointed to the U.S. evacuation directive as a strong indicator of waning confidence.
“For a country like the United States to take such a step… it signals a clear loss of confidence in the ability of this administration to guarantee safety and stability,” the statement said.
“This is not a routine administrative decision. It is a verdict.”
The party criticised what it described as the government’s misplaced priorities, arguing that the administration appears focused on political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections instead of addressing urgent security challenges.
“The President is so consumed by politics that he is increasingly losing sight of his primary responsibility, which is the protection of the lives of Nigerians.”
The ADC highlighted the scale of insecurity across multiple regions, noting that attacks in the North-West, North-Central, North-East, and the Middle Belt have become “frequent, coordinated, and devastating.”
“Communities are being overrun, lives are being lost, and citizens are being left to fend for themselves. These are not isolated incidents. They are part of a sustained pattern.”
It further alleged that in some cases, warnings had been issued ahead of attacks without corresponding preventive action.
“What follows is now predictable: statements, condolences, and assurances that such incidents will not happen again. But they do.”
Referencing repeated violence in Plateau, Benue, and Borno states, the party said the government’s response has remained unchanged despite worsening outcomes.
“At this point, ‘never again’ has become a refrain that is no longer matched by results.”
While commending the courage of Nigerian troops, the ADC maintained that the problem lies within the broader system.The bravery of our soldiers is not in doubt… The problem lies not with those on the frontlines, but with the system that is meant to support them.”
It added that the death of a serving general underscores deeper structural and leadership failures.
“The death of a general in active service is not just a tragedy. It is a signal of deeper structural and leadership failures that must be urgently addressed.”
As Commander-in-Chief, the party said President Tinubu bears ultimate responsibility for the country’s security direction, calling for a shift in approach.
“This moment demands leadership that is focused, decisive, and accountable,” it stated. “But instead, we are witnessing a President who… has reduced his role as Commander-in-Chief to merely issuing condolences and condemnations.”
The ADC called for an immediate reset of security strategy, improved coordination, and measurable outcomes.
“Certainly, the current approach, whatever it is, is not delivering results. The President should have the humility to admit that he has failed, and every single life lost under his watch is evidence of this tragic failure.”
“This is not about politics. It is about responsibility… ensuring that the sacrifices of our soldiers are not in vain and that Nigerians can live without fear.”
The party concluded that unless there is a decisive break from the current pattern, both citizens and the international community will continue to question the government’s commitment to its most fundamental duty—protecting lives.
