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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration regarding the recent United States airstrikes on suspected terrorist sites in Sokoto State, labeling the event as indicative of a failure to address Nigeria’s security issues.

In a statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party acknowledged the significant security threats facing the nation, but expressed serious concerns about the presence of foreign troops on Nigerian soil, which raises issues of sovereignty and governance.

The ADC emphasized that protecting lives and combating terrorism should remain a national priority, asserting its support for all lawful and effective strategies aimed at restoring security.

However, the party insisted that Nigeria must not allow desperation to compromise its independence.

“We have consistently opposed the presence and operations of foreign military forces on Nigerian territory,” the statement declared.

“Our current security challenges should not be used as a justification to undermine the sovereignty of the country.”

In response to the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) airstrikes conducted on December 25, 2025, the ADC stated it could only view the action as a desperate and temporary measure, cautioning that it must not replace Nigerian-led solutions to domestic security issues.

The opposition party further accused the Tinubu administration of incompetence, arguing that the foreign strike is a reflection of poor leadership.

According to the ADC, this situation arises when a government treats national security and diplomacy as secondary concerns, while primarily focusing on revenue generation.

The party also criticized the manner in which Nigerians were informed about the airstrikes.

It referred to the communication as troubling, noting that such a sensitive and historic issue was initially revealed through a social media post by the American President.

“When it serves political messaging, the President addresses Nigerians directly,” Abdullahi remarked.

“Yet, on a matter as serious as a foreign military strike on Nigerian soil, Nigerians first heard it from the U.S., while the only response from Nigeria came via a spokesperson from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”

The ADC stated that this approach demonstrates a concerning lack of understanding regarding the seriousness of the situation and urged the federal government to be more transparent.

It called on authorities to clearly communicate to Nigerians how many terrorists were actually killed in the strike and to fully assume responsibility for securing the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ADC's stance on foreign military presence in Nigeria?

The ADC opposes the presence and operations of foreign military forces on Nigerian soil, emphasizing that Nigeria's sovereignty should not be compromised by external interventions.

How does the ADC view the recent U.S. airstrikes?

The ADC views the U.S. airstrikes as a desperate and temporary measure that should not replace solutions led by Nigeria to address its domestic security issues.

What concerns did the ADC raise about communication regarding the airstrikes?

The ADC criticized the way Nigerians were informed about the airstrikes, highlighting that such a significant issue was first announced through a social media post by the U.S. President, rather than through official channels in Nigeria.