ADC blames Tinubu government for Nigeria’s global human rights downgrade by Trump
Opposition party says insecurity and poor diplomacy have damaged Nigeria’s image
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has held President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration responsible for Nigeria’s recent designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) by former U.S. President Donald Trump, citing worsening insecurity, diplomatic inertia, and a failure of leadership as key reasons for the country’s global embarrassment.
In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC expressed alarm over the deteriorating security and human rights situation in Nigeria, saying that almost 15,000 lives have been lost to violent attacks since President Tinubu assumed office in 2023.
The opposition party described the development as a reflection of international concern about Nigeria’s governance, human rights record, and inability to protect citizens from escalating violence.
“We are guided by the painful reality that what is truly at stake are thousands of human lives lost to insecurity in Nigeria, irrespective of tribe, religion, or region,” Abdullahi said. “We therefore seize this moment to honour the memory of all victims and extend our deepest sympathies to their families.”
ADC says Trump’s decision signals global concern for human life
The ADC noted that the CPC designation should be seen as a wake-up call for the Tinubu administration to act decisively to safeguard lives and restore global confidence. It said President Trump’s statement underscored the growing international concern over the sanctity of human life and the duty of every national government to protect its citizens.
“President Trump’s statement serves as a stark reminder of the global concern for the sanctity of human life and the fundamental duty of national governments to protect citizens within their borders,” the party said. “A nation’s dignity is now measured not only by its economy but also by its willingness and capacity to protect its people.”
Insecurity worsening under Tinubu, ADC alleges
According to the ADC, insecurity across Nigeria has worsened significantly under President Tinubu’s leadership, with terrorist groups expanding beyond the North into the Middle Belt and parts of the South. The party accused the government of denial, poor accountability, and a lack of empathy toward victims of violence.
“The insecurity crisis did not begin under President Tinubu, but he has failed to acknowledge its worsening under his watch or accept responsibility,” the statement read. “Instead, Nigerians have been met with excuses, silence, and political posturing that mock the tragedy of victims and their families.”
The party cited the October 31, 2025 terrorist attack in Kwara State, claimed by the Al-Qaeda-linked JNIM group, as evidence of Nigeria’s growing vulnerability. “Entire communities have been sacked; worshippers slaughtered in sacred spaces; and bandits now control vast territories, imposing taxes on citizens with impunity,” it said.
The ADC further warned that Boko Haram, once declared “technically degraded,” is regaining strength, while new international terror networks are openly claiming attacks on Nigerian soil.
Criticism of foreign policy and diplomatic failures
The opposition party also condemned what it called “diplomatic inertia” in Nigeria’s foreign relations, arguing that the Tinubu government has failed to appoint ambassadors to several key countries more than two years into its tenure.
“Why has the government failed to appoint ambassadors to key countries more than two years into its term? How can an administration boasting of record revenues still cite lack of funds as an excuse? Why has foreign policy become so personalised, focused on the president’s image rather than Nigeria’s interests?” Abdullahi queried.
The ADC said that Nigeria’s influence in West Africa had diminished sharply under Tinubu’s leadership, citing the fracturing of ECOWAS and the growing political instability in neighbouring states as proof of the country’s weakened diplomatic clout.
“Under President Tinubu, Nigeria’s leadership status in Africa has sharply declined,” the party said. “Nothing illustrates this more than the disunity within ECOWAS under his watch. A region that once looked up to Nigeria for guidance on democracy and security now watches us struggle with our own crises.”
ADC proposes reforms to restore stability
To restore national stability and international credibility, the ADC called for a comprehensive security and diplomatic overhaul, including the restructuring of Nigeria’s security agencies, the appointment of competent ambassadors, and a foreign policy focused on national interests rather than political image.
“We must act now, with courage, clarity, and an unyielding commitment to protect the lives and dignity of every Nigerian,” the party declared. “Certainly, Nigeria cannot continue like this.”
ADC urges international support, not punishment
While appreciating President Trump and other global leaders for their concern over Nigeria’s security situation, the ADC cautioned against any punitive measures or foreign military interventions.
“We appreciate President Trump and other world leaders for their concern,” Abdullahi said. “However, mobilising or threatening military intervention would be counterproductive. The focus should be on strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and helping our institutions work for the people.”
Warning of worsening instability
The party concluded by warning that unless urgent reforms are undertaken, Nigeria risks further decline in security and international standing.
“With insecurity rising, global confidence waning, and a government obsessed with propaganda and self-celebration, Nigeria is running out of time to prevent total collapse,” the ADC warned. “This moment calls for leadership, not excuses.”
