Rising Terror Threat: ADC Faults Tinubu’s Security Record, Unveils Reform Plan

Concerns over Nigeria’s worsening security situation have intensified following the latest Global Terrorism Index report, which indicates a troubling rise in terrorist activities and fatalities across the country.

Critics, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), argue that the figures reflect a deteriorating security landscape under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. According to the report, terror-related incidents increased by 43 percent, rising from 120 cases in 2024 to 171 in 2025.

In a statement signed by the national publicity secretary of the party, Bolaji Abdullahi, on Thursday said the data further shows that Borno State remains the epicentre of the crisis, accounting for 67 percent of all attacks and 72 percent of resulting deaths.

More alarmingly, civilians now constitute the majority of victims, making up 67 percent of those killed, while members of the Nigerian military account for 19 percent, an indication, analysts say, of growing vulnerability among ordinary citizens.

The ADC, in a strongly worded reaction, criticised what it described as the federal government’s handling of national security.

The party contrasted President Tinubu’s recent trip to the United Kingdom with the killing of dozens of civilians in Borno State, arguing that leadership must demonstrate urgency and empathy in moments of national tragedy.

Drawing a global comparison, the party referenced the response of former U.S. President Donald Trump during a recent conflict involving American troops, noting that visible leadership during times of loss sends a powerful message of solidarity and responsibility.

Against this backdrop, the ADC outlined a three-point strategy it says will overhaul Nigeria’s security architecture if given the mandate.

First, the party emphasised the need for improved coordination among intelligence and security agencies. It noted that while Nigeria possesses significant intelligence capabilities, poor inter-agency collaboration often leads to missed warnings and delayed responses.

To address this, the ADC proposed the establishment of a legally backed national intelligence coordination system, headed by a Coordinator of National Intelligence, alongside a unified Joint Terrorism Task Force.

Second, the party advocated for a decentralised policing structure. It argued that effective security cannot be managed solely from Abuja, stressing the need for a multi-layered system involving federal, state, and community policing frameworks.

According to the ADC, such an approach would enhance response time, improve accountability, and better reflect local security realities across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas

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Third, the party called for a shift from reactive to preventive security measures. It proposed the deployment of intelligence-driven strategies, including data-based surveillance, early warning mechanisms, and rapid response units in all states.

The ADC maintained that its approach would prioritise stopping attacks before they occur, rather than responding after lives have already been lost.