The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticized the Nigerian government’s handling of recent kidnappings, warning that negotiating with bandits undermines national security. In a statement, the party expressed relief that some abducted individuals, including worshippers from Christ Apostolic Church in Kwara State and students in Kebbi, have been freed. However, the ADC emphasized that these abductions should not have occurred if the government had fulfilled its constitutional responsibilities.

The party accused the administration of being distracted by politics and only reacting to international pressure. The ADC noted that the circumstances surrounding the release of the victims are unclear, with conflicting statements from top officials. The party is concerned that the government may be paying ransom or entering agreements with violent groups that have killed innocent Nigerians.

Security leaders’ comments suggesting that kidnappers were not arrested because they voluntarily came out for peace talks have raised questions about the government’s approach. The ADC questioned whether the government is paying ransom to insurgents and what was exchanged for the kidnappers’ supposed surrender of weapons. The party also asked about justice for the families of victims killed by the bandits.

The ADC warned that if the government has chosen negotiation as its main response to insurgency and kidnappings, the country is headed in a dangerous direction. This approach, the party said, avoids confronting the crisis properly and helps widen the banditry economy. The ADC also criticized the recent closure of Unity Schools following multiple abductions, saying it plays into the ideology of extremists.

The party urged the government to deploy the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to all Federal Unity Schools to allow for immediate reopening. The ADC emphasized that every day schools remain closed, terrorists grow bolder, and Nigeria drifts further from the promise of security and stability. The party called on the government to reopen and secure the schools, and to bring the children home.

The ADC’s criticism comes as the Nigerian government faces mounting pressure to address the rising insecurity in the country. The recent kidnappings have sparked widespread concern, and the government’s response has been criticized as inadequate. As the situation continues to unfold, the ADC’s warnings about the dangers of negotiating with bandits and the need for a more effective approach to security have highlighted the need for a comprehensive solution to the crisis.