Nigeria’s current state of insecurity has been attributed to the “absent-mindedness” of the government, according to Prince Adewole Adebayo, the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election. In a recent interview, Adebayo shared his views on the country’s security situation, the threat of invasion, and the role of the opposition.

Adebayo described the government as “rudderless” and lacking a clear direction. He stated that the government’s reactions to security incidents are episodic and reactive, rather than systematic and proactive. The SDP candidate also criticized the government’s handling of the economy, culture, and sports, saying that it has failed in every aspect.

Regarding the US President Donald Trump’s description of Nigeria as a “disgraced country,” Adebayo disagreed, stating that Trump was referring to the Tinubu administration, not the country as a whole. He also dismissed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation’s suggestion that foreign interests, particularly from America, may be behind the recent surge in attacks.

Adebayo emphasized that the explanation for Nigeria’s insecurity is simple: the government has failed. He pointed out that the country has enough resources, manpower, and institutional experience to defend itself, but the government is not using these tools effectively. The SDP candidate also noted that the opposition is not exploiting the government’s misfortunes, but rather, the government is producing too many misfortunes.

The US has reaffirmed its readiness to deepen security cooperation and share intelligence with Nigeria, but Adebayo remains skeptical, stating that this is not a new development. He emphasized that the government needs to take responsibility for its failures and work towards finding solutions, rather than relying on external help.

Adebayo has been working behind the scenes to calm tensions and find solutions to the country’s problems. He has engaged with international contacts, including the House of Lords, and has spoken to the media about the need for cooperation and respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty.

The government’s recent response to the security situation, including the deployment of military personnel and the withdrawal of police from VIP protection duties, has been deemed insufficient by Adebayo. He stated that the problem lies with the commander-in-chief, who is not providing effective leadership. The SDP candidate emphasized the need for systematic and proactive actions, rather than episodic and reactive responses, to address the country’s security challenges.