ADC: Nigeria’s inclusion in US watchlist a wake-up call for Tinubu

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) says the recent designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” by US President Donald Trump should serve as a wake-up call to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

On Friday, Trump tagged Nigeria a “country of particular concern”, and accused the Nigerian government of turning a blind eye to attacks on Christians.

A statement on Monday by Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC national publicity secretary, said the move “reinforces global concern” over the Nigerian government’s “failure” to protect its citizens from rising insecurity.

The party claimed that thousands of lives have been lost across the country, irrespective of tribe, religion, or region, and that the situation demands urgent and sincere action from those in power.

“The statement by President Trump reminds us of the greater global concern about the sanctity of human life, and the cardinal responsibility of national governments to protect the lives of people who live within their borders,” the ADC said.

“It is sad to note that it is in this most sacred mandate of government that this administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has failed most.”

The party claimed that available reports indicate that nearly 15,000 people have been killed since Tinubu assumed office in 2023, adding that “entire communities have been sacked, worshippers have been slaughtered in religious spaces, and bandits now control large territories”.

The ADC noted that Boko Haram and other terror groups are “regaining strength”, while new extremist organisations have begun to carry out attacks in parts of the country.

The party accused the president of refusing to acknowledge the worsening security situation or take responsibility.

“Instead, Nigerians have been met with excuses, cruel silence, and political posturing that mock the tragedy of victims and their families,” the statement reads.

The ADC also faulted the government’s handling of foreign affairs, noting that Nigeria has yet to appoint ambassadors to key countries more than two years into the administration.

“Why has our foreign policy become so deeply personalised and focused on the image of the president rather than the interests of Nigerians?” Abdullahi asked.

The ADC said Nigeria’s influence in West Africa has declined sharply, citing the “fracturing of ECOWAS” as evidence that the country has lost its regional leadership role.

The opposition party accused the government of being “obsessed with politics and propaganda” rather than documenting and addressing violent attacks.

The party called for an overhaul of the national security structure, appointment of qualified ambassadors, and a reset of foreign policy based on national interest.

The ADC also called for urgent economic reforms, including a credible social welfare system to cushion hardship and restore public confidence.

While commending world leaders for expressing concern about Nigeria’s security situation, the ADC urged the international community to support democratic and institutional reforms instead of military intervention.

“Nigeria is not beyond saving, but time is running out. We must act now, with courage, clarity, and a commitment to protect the lives and dignity of every Nigerian,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, Tinubu had rejected Trump’s labelling of Nigeria, saying the country remains a democracy anchored on constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and belief.