The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu over the recent air strikes conducted by the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) in Sokoto state. According to the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC supports lawful efforts to protect Nigerians, but blames governance failure for the need for foreign military intervention on Nigerian soil.
The air strikes, which targeted ISIS terrorists, were carried out on Friday, with the United States reportedly informing the Nigerian government beforehand. The ADC has cautioned that allowing external forces to conduct direct military operations in the country could undermine Nigeria’s long-term strategic interests. The party has also questioned Nigeria’s role in the operation, suggesting that the country should not be relegated to a secondary position in an exercise it ought to be leading.
Abdullahi called on the Federal Government to provide clarification on operational control, casualties, and the number of terrorists killed in the airstrikes. The ADC recognizes the serious security challenges facing Nigeria and affirms that protecting Nigerian lives and defeating terrorism must remain a central national priority. The party supports lawful and effective measures aimed at saving lives and restoring security, but opposes the physical operation of foreign military forces on Nigerian soil, citing concerns about national sovereignty.
The US air strikes in Sokoto are the latest development in the ongoing effort to combat terrorism in Nigeria. The Nigerian government has faced criticism for its handling of the security situation, with some arguing that the reliance on foreign military intervention undermines the country’s ability to address its own security challenges. The ADC’s statement highlights the need for the government to provide clear information about the air strikes and to clarify Nigeria’s role in the operation.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Nigerian government will likely face further scrutiny over its handling of the security situation and its relationship with foreign military forces. The ADC’s criticism of the government’s response to the air strikes underscores the need for transparency and accountability in the country’s security efforts. With the security challenges facing Nigeria showing no signs of abating, the government will need to provide a clear and effective strategy for addressing the situation and restoring security to the country.
