ADC to Tinubu: You Seek UN Security Council Seat But Can't Secure Nigeria
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has levelled a scathing rebuke at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying it is unacceptable for Nigeria to be vying for a powerful seat at the United Nations Security Council while the country struggles to guarantee basic security and public safety at home.
The ADC — speaking through a spokesperson in Abuja — accused the presidency of grandstanding and seeking international prestige at a time when citizens across multiple states are battling insecurity, economic hardship and a growing sense of abandonment. According to the party, international influence should follow from domestic stability, not replace it.
“How do you ask for a place on the global stage when you cannot secure your own people?” the ADC asked, demanding that the government first fix internal problems before pursuing lofty diplomatic ambitions.
In its statement, the opposition party pointed to a string of violent incidents, banditry, kidnappings and intercommunal clashes that have persisted in several regions. The ADC argued these challenges expose weaknesses in governance and question Nigeria’s readiness to take on greater responsibilities in global peace and security forums.
“Diplomacy and prestige are meaningless to a family that has lost a loved one to violence,” the party added, urging the administration to prioritize strengthening security architecture, improving welfare for vulnerable citizens, and addressing the root causes of unrest — including unemployment and lack of infrastructure.
Sources inside the presidency insist the bid for a UN Security Council seat is part of Nigeria’s long-held foreign policy objectives and will not detract from domestic responsibilities. However, ADC officials say actions speak louder than statements, and they are calling for measurable results.
What the ADC wants:
- Immediate scale-up of operations against violent non-state actors;
- Increased funding and support for state-level security initiatives;
- Transparent reporting on progress with clear timelines;
- Urgent social and economic interventions to reduce recruitment into criminal gangs.
Political analysts say the exchange highlights a growing tension between domestic reality and diplomatic ambition. Some observers note that while global visibility can be beneficial — attracting investment and diplomatic clout — it often becomes controversial when citizens feel their daily safety is not being prioritized.
Reactions have been mixed across social media. Many Nigerians expressed frustration in comments and posts, saying the government should “fix the nation first.” Others argued that international engagement can coexist with domestic reforms and should not be framed as mutually exclusive.
For now, the debate adds pressure on the Tinubu administration to show concrete improvements on the security front — a task that ADC insists cannot wait while the country chases international accolades.