The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has openly rebuked President Bola Tinubu’s administration for emphasizing international diplomacy at the expense of Nigeria’s pressing internal challenges. This criticism followed Vice President Kashim Shettima’s recent speech at the United Nations General Assembly, which centered on the Palestinian crisis.
In a statement released on Thursday, Jackie Wayas, the ADC’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, described Shettima’s address as a missed chance to spotlight Nigeria’s urgent domestic issues on the global stage.
“Shettima’s remarks represented a lost opportunity to galvanize international assistance in tackling Nigeria’s worsening problems,” Wayas asserted.
She highlighted the severity of Nigeria’s current situation, noting, “The country is teetering on the edge, with armed bandits terrorizing communities, farmers abandoning their lands, agricultural output plummeting across multiple states, and the prices of basic necessities soaring uncontrollably.”
Wayas drew attention to recent alarming incidents that underscore the nation’s fragile security environment. “Just days ago, Nigerians were stunned as heavily armed bandits, flaunting ammunition around their necks, openly held a press briefing in Katsina State. This is not only humiliating but also a stark indictment of any government claiming authority over its territory,” she remarked.
Related: 2027: Speculations intensify over Jonathan’s potential return after high-level ADC strategy meeting with David Mark
The ADC accused the Tinubu administration of sidelining Nigeria’s internal crises in favor of gaining international recognition.
“Rather than mobilizing global allies to assist Nigeria in overcoming its severe domestic challenges, this government chose to spotlight the struggles of another nation. Nigerians deserve leadership that prioritizes their safety, dignity, and welfare above all else,” Wayas emphasized.
She further stressed that millions of Nigerians are enduring daily hunger, a consequence of ongoing insecurity and the collapse of food supply chains.
“We remind the Presidency that responsibility begins at home. Nigerians should not be collateral damage in a government’s quest for international relevance. Until our leaders confront insecurity head-on, no amount of eloquence on foreign platforms can mask the harsh realities faced by citizens,” she added.
While expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people’s legitimate aspirations, Wayas insisted that Nigerian leaders must first focus on their own populace.
“Though we empathize with Palestine’s pursuit of dignity, we hope that when Palestine addresses the world, it will also highlight the killings, kidnappings, hunger, and suffering occurring in Nigeria. That would embody true global solidarity and shared humanity,” she stated.
The ADC concluded by urging the Tinubu government to move beyond rhetoric and implement tangible measures to restore security and economic stability.
“The ADC demands immediate and effective action-not mere speeches-to protect farmers, stabilize food prices, and eradicate banditry once and for all,” Wayas declared.
