The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the bomb explosions that hit Maiduguri, Borno State capital, on Monday night, killing 23 people and injuring many others.
In a statement released on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party expressed sympathy for the victims and their families.
It described the attack as a tragedy affecting not just Maiduguri residents but the entire country.
The ADC said, “Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the people of Maiduguri.”
The party also praised emergency responders and security personnel, saying, “We commend the courage of first responders and security personnel who are working to assist the injured and restore calm.”
However, the ADC raised concerns about Nigeria’s security situation, warning that Maiduguri should not return to a period of frequent attacks after experiencing some stability in recent years.
It stated, “This tragic incident also raises persistent questions about the state of security in our country.”
The opposition party criticized the federal government’s response, arguing that national leadership is not fully the focus at a critical time.
It expressed worry that President Bola Tinubu is currently outside the country, saying, “Moments like this demand the full and undivided attention of the nation’s leadership.”
The ADC further accused top officials of being distracted by politics instead of security. It said, “Those charged with protecting the country are focused on politics.”
The ADC added that, “This is not leadership. It is a dangerous distraction, and it is costing lives.”
In a strongly worded position, the party stressed the human cost of insecurity, noting that victims are not just statistics.
It said: “Those being killed by terrorists are not just numbers.
“They are people’s children, husbands, fathers and families.”
The statement also criticized the president’s absence during the crisis, saying, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is abroad… while Nigerians mourn and soldiers are being buried.”
The ADC called on the president to return immediately and take charge of the situation. It said the protection of lives and property must come first, adding,“It cannot be treated as secondary to political distractions.”
The party also suggested that the government should begin compensating families of victims, both civilians and military personnel, as a way of taking responsibility.
It concluded with a warning about rising insecurity, stating that, “This is unacceptable, as it is condemnable.”