The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticized Governor Monday Okpebholo for his recent comments on insecurity, labeling them as insensitive and troubling. In a statement released by its spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the governor’s remarks as “not just careless, but disturbing.”
The controversy arose from a comment attributed to the governor, in which he allegedly stated that kidnappings are being carried out to influence election outcomes. Specifically, he said, “They are kidnapping people because somebody wants to win an election, it’s not fair. They did this to former President Jonathan and they succeeded, but we know their trick already.” This statement has sparked a strong reaction from the ADC, which claims that many families are still searching for their loved ones and deserve answers rather than “fancy conspiracy theories.”
According to Abdullahi, the situation reflects the mindset driving the ruling party and is a cause for concern. He questioned the governor’s understanding of the implications of his claims, pointing out that the person who previously used insecurity to discredit former President Jonathan is now in power. Abdullahi also expressed surprise that a public official would make such a statement, particularly given the sensitive nature of the issue.
The ADC’s criticism highlights the ongoing debate about insecurity in the region and the need for effective solutions. The party’s statement emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of insecurity, rather than relying on conspiracy theories or baseless accusations. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the ADC’s criticism and what steps will be taken to address the concerns of affected families.
The incident has also raised questions about the role of politicians in addressing insecurity and the need for a more nuanced approach to the issue. With many Nigerians still affected by kidnappings and other security threats, the search for solutions continues. The ADC’s criticism of the governor’s comments serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy and effective leadership in times of crisis.