The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has stressed that Nigeria’s national interest must come before partisan politics. This statement responds to comments by Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, who cited the United States’ designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged violations of religious freedom.
APC Publicity Secretary Seye Oladejo warned that sensitive national issues should not be politicized. He described Obi’s remarks as “selective outrage” and an attempt to exploit a delicate matter for political gain rather than demonstrate statesmanship. Oladejo accused Obi of grandstanding and seeking to capitalize on Nigeria’s temporary challenges for attention.
Oladejo emphasized that national unity and integrity must guide every public reaction to international reports about Nigeria. He urged citizens and political leaders to defend the country’s image through responsible communication and patriotic engagement, insisting that political differences should never override the collective responsibility to protect Nigeria’s reputation. Leaders, he added, should project optimism and confidence when discussing the nation’s challenges.
The APC spokesman noted that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is taking bold steps to restore security and strengthen governance, including reforms to improve military coordination, intelligence sharing, and technological capacity in the fight against insecurity. The federal government is also addressing economic challenges that contribute to insecurity through targeted reforms and job creation.
Oladejo called for patriotism to be a shared value among leaders and citizens, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue and collaboration across political lines to sustain national progress. He welcomed genuine suggestions but cautioned against statements that could weaken public confidence in the country.
The APC reaffirmed that Nigeria will overcome its challenges through unity, resilience, and patriotic commitment. The United States recently re‑designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged religious‑freedom violations, a label the federal government rejected as inaccurate. The government reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights and freedoms of all Nigerians.
As the country navigates these challenges, the APC’s emphasis on prioritizing national interest, promoting unity, and fostering patriotism is seen as a crucial step toward addressing Nigeria’s problems and restoring its international reputation.
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