The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has vehemently criticized the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors for holding a political meeting in Zamfara State, a region recently devastated by a surge in killings. The ADC condemned the gathering as a display of profound insensitivity, particularly given the timing, which came shortly after the massacre of numerous citizens. The party contrasted the governors’ celebratory demeanor, captured in photographs with them “grinning for the camera in full ceremonial robes,” with the grim reality of the violence and suffering endured by the people of Zamfara. The ADC argued that instead of using the opportunity to show solidarity with their colleague, the Zamfara State Governor, and address the escalating violence, the PDP governors chose to prioritize a political rally, seemingly disregarding the memory of the victims. This act, according to the ADC, epitomizes the political class’s detachment from the plight of ordinary Nigerians.
The ADC further emphasized the gravity of the security situation by highlighting a recent incident in Malumfashi, Katsina State, where bandits attacked worshippers during dawn prayers, killing 30 individuals and burning 20 villagers alive in their homes. This attack followed closely on the heels of another massacre in Zamfara, where 47 people were killed, including 38 hostages who were murdered even after a ransom was paid. The ADC provided a grim tally of the escalating violence, stating that over 140 Nigerians had been murdered in just two months in Katsina and Zamfara alone. The party underscored the alarming trend of entire villages being ransacked and dozens of people abducted, painting a picture of a region gripped by fear and insecurity. The ADC lamented that while these tragedies unfold, President Tinubu appeared more focused on international engagements, seemingly prioritizing photo opportunities over addressing the urgent security crisis at home.
The ADC criticized President Tinubu’s silence and inaction in the face of these escalating atrocities. The party pointed out the stark contrast between the President’s international travels and his lack of engagement with the suffering of his own people. They highlighted the absence of any public expression of condolence to bereaved families or reassurance to survivors, arguing that such indifference would be unimaginable in the countries President Tinubu frequently visits. The ADC stressed that the President’s silence sends a dangerous message of apathy and neglect, further eroding public trust and confidence in the government’s ability to protect its citizens.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, the ADC called for immediate and decisive action. The party demanded the declaration of a state of emergency in Katsina and Zamfara States. This measure, they argued, would allow the government to concentrate resources and implement effective strategies to stem the tide of bloodshed and restore order in the affected regions. The ADC also urged President Tinubu and his administration to undertake a comprehensive re-evaluation of Nigeria’s national security architecture. The party argued that the current system has demonstrably failed to protect lives and property, and a fundamental overhaul is urgently needed. The ADC cited the recent call by the Chief of Defence Staff for citizens to acquire self-defense skills as a clear indication of the system’s inadequacy.
The ADC’s call for a re-evaluation of the national security architecture reflects a growing concern about the effectiveness of the current strategies in addressing the complex security challenges facing Nigeria. The party argued that the existing system, characterized by a reliance on conventional military approaches, has proven insufficient to counter the evolving tactics of bandits and other criminal elements. They advocated for a more holistic approach that integrates intelligence gathering, community engagement, and socio-economic development initiatives to address the root causes of insecurity.
The ADC concluded its statement with a scathing indictment of both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition PDP. The party accused both parties of prioritizing political maneuvering and power struggles over the well-being of the Nigerian people. They argued that neither party has demonstrated genuine concern for the suffering caused by the escalating violence, and their focus remains firmly on political expediency. The ADC’s statement serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of political inaction and the urgent need for a concerted effort to address the security crisis gripping parts of Nigeria. The party’s call for a state of emergency and a re-evaluation of the national security architecture underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for a fundamental shift in approach to effectively protect the lives and livelihoods of Nigerian citizens.
