Group Defends Tinubu, Faults Opposition Party Over Sokoto Airstrikes Claims

The Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF) has dismissed claims by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) linking the December 25 airstrikes in Sokoto State to alleged incompetence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, describing the assertions as misleading and politically motivated.

In a statement issued yesterday by its Northwest coordinator, Saminu Tukur, the group said it was compelled to respond to what it described as attempts by the ADC to politicise a sensitive national security issue involving foreign military intervention on Nigerian soil.

The NYF said the position of the ADC undermines the sacrifices of Nigeria’s security forces and fails to recognise the efforts of the federal government in combating terrorism and insecurity.

Tukur said the claim that the airstrikes were a direct result of incompetence by the Tinubu administration was not only misleading but also an affront to the resilience and determination of the nation’s security apparatus.

“It is unfortunate that the ADC has chosen to politicise a grave matter such as foreign military intervention on Nigerian soil. In its attempt to score political points, the party has failed to acknowledge the lawful and concerted efforts of the Nigerian government to protect its citizens from terrorism,” he said.

He added that rather than promoting unity and support for ongoing security operations, the ADC had adopted a narrative that undermines the sacrifices of the armed forces and Nigerians affected by insecurity.

The group, however, called for transparency regarding the outcome of the airstrikes, urging relevant authorities to disclose the number of terrorists neutralised during the operation.

According to Tukur, openness and accountability are essential to sustaining public confidence and demonstrating the effectiveness of counterterrorism efforts.

The NYF further argued that Nigeria’s security challenges predate the Tinubu administration, noting that terrorism and insecurity were inherited from previous governments.

“The current administration inherited a complex security landscape. It is disingenuous for the ADC to ignore this historical reality. Addressing insecurity requires collective responsibility, not blame games that further divide the country,” he said.

He called on political parties and civil society organisations to rise above partisan interests and engage in constructive dialogue aimed at strengthening national security.

Tukur also warned against what he described as inflammatory rhetoric capable of undermining the morale of security personnel and emboldening criminal elements.

“Those who exploit insecurity for political gain must be held accountable. The Northern Youth Frontiers will not shy away from exposing individuals or groups that seek to benefit from national instability,” he said.

Reaffirming the group’s support for President Tinubu’s administration, the NYF urged political actors to embrace cooperation and transparency in the collective effort to safeguard lives and build a more secure and prosperous nation.

“The time for division is over. What Nigeria needs now is unity, collaboration and a shared commitment to the greater good of the country,” the statement added.