The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed grave concern over the escalating insecurity in parts of Nigeria, warning that recent developments in Zamfara and Kwara States reflect a dangerous weakening of state authority under the current administration.
The party condemned the reported extortion of over ₦56 million from farmers in Zamfara by armed gangs and the mass desertion of a community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State due to bandit threats.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described the incidents as “a national warning” and “evidence of national surrender.”
“When farmers must pay terrorists before accessing their own land, it is no longer just a Zamfara tragedy. When an entire community abandons their homes to bandits in the heart of the country, it is not merely a local challenge — it is proof of a failing state,” the statement read.
The ADC said the extortion of millions from farmers goes beyond insecurity, representing a direct challenge to Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“When criminals can tax citizens at gunpoint, the state has ceded its monopoly of force. This is an erosion of authority and a retreat of governance,” it added.
The party expressed shock that such a collapse in law and order is occurring despite Nigeria maintaining one of Africa’s largest defence budgets.
The statement also referenced the recent abduction of about 50 people in Zamfara, warning that other parts of the country “considered safe” may soon face similar threats.
Questioning the government’s grip on security, the ADC reminded President Tinubu of his own 2014 criticism of former President Goodluck Jonathan over insecurity, noting that the situation has now worsened under his leadership.
“Although the crisis Tinubu campaigned against in 2014 has multiplied under his watch, no one is calling on him to resign. We are not asking him to step down, only to do his job,” it stated.
The party also queried why the President considered the security situation in Rivers State sufficient grounds for a possible state of emergency, while Zamfara’s collapse has drawn no direct comment.
Calling for urgent action, the ADC urged Tinubu to “drop every other preoccupation” and focus on tackling the spread of banditry.
“No government can claim control while citizens negotiate their survival with criminals. If farms and communities cannot be secured, the administration has failed in its most basic duty,” it warned.
