ADC Criticizes Nigeria’s Security Performance Following 2026 GTI Ranking
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its leader, Peter Obi, have expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s status as the fourth most affected country by terrorism, according to the 2026 Global Terrorism Index (GTI). This ranking has been described as a grave indictment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, highlighting perceived failures in national security.
Obi Labels Ranking a Reflection of Leadership Failures
Peter Obi characterized the GTI ranking as a disheartening illustration of ineffective leadership. He noted that while other nations are making strides in combating terrorism, Nigeria appears to be moving in the opposite direction.
Party Spokesperson Emphasizes Systemic Governance Failures
In a statement issued on Thursday, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC’s national spokesperson, referenced alarming statistics from the GTI 2026 report, which documented a 43 percent increase in terrorist attacks alongside rising civilian casualties. Abdullahi insisted that these trends reflect profound systemic failures in governance, extending beyond mere security weaknesses.
Condemnation of Leadership’s Absence During Crisis
The ADC also criticized the notable absence of key government figures—including President Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Defense Minister Christopher Musa—during ongoing security challenges. Their international travel has raised flags regarding the government’s commitment to addressing the nation’s security crises.
Strategic Proposals for Enhancing National Security
In light of the worsening security landscape, the ADC has proposed a comprehensive three-pronged strategy aimed at improving the national security situation. This plan includes bolstered intelligence coordination, a push for decentralized policing to bring security measures closer to local communities, and a shift from a reactive to a proactive approach through intelligence-driven operations.
Leadership and Regional Cooperation Vital for Security
Abdullahi emphasized that governments dedicated to safeguarding their citizens must demonstrate visible and collaborative leadership, especially during crises. He urged for the strengthening of regional security frameworks and addressing the socio-economic conditions that fuel extremist movements.
Emerging Threats Highlight Ongoing Security Challenges
The ADC’s statement underscored the evolving nature of the terrorist threat in Nigeria, with the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) responsible for over half of all attacks and fatalities. As violence persists, particularly in Borno state, which accounts for 67 percent of attacks and a troubling 72 percent of deaths, concerns about governance and stability continue to mount.
Call for Immediate Action from Leadership
Amid mounting insecurity, Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar, has urged the military to intensify efforts against terrorist groups. Senator Ali Ndume has also recommended that the federal government implement drastic measures and explore options for external support, such as employing mercenaries, to confront escalating threats.
Obi’s Critique of Government Performance in Protecting Citizens
In a recent post on X, Obi highlighted the troubling GTI findings, which reveal that Nigeria is among the countries experiencing the most significant increase in terrorism-related fatalities. He attributed this detrimental trend to weak governance, rampant corruption, insufficient prioritization of security, and a failure to uphold the government’s fundamental duty of protecting citizens.
He passionately questioned the effectiveness of a government that cannot ensure safety for its people, urging a shift from excuses to actionable measures that prioritize the security of all Nigerians. Obi reaffirmed that a safe and secure Nigeria is not merely a desire but a fundamental right that every citizen should have.
