ADC Condemns Tinubu Administration's Terrorist Reintegration Strategy
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a sharp rebuke of President Bola Tinubu's administration over its controversial plan to reintegrate nearly 800 terrorists into Nigerian communities. In a strongly worded statement, the party described this initiative as clear evidence that the government is adopting a soft stance on terrorism and demonstrating a lack of coherent security strategy.
Mixed Signals in National Security Criticized
ADC emphasized that Nigeria cannot afford conflicting messages in a fight that demands unwavering discipline and resolve. The party argued that national security is not a guessing game nor an arena where sentiment should override sound judgment. According to the ADC, the battle against terrorism requires leadership that fully comprehends the high stakes and is ready to act with firmness and clarity.
Through its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party contended that framing insurgents as "brothers" or "prodigal sons," as some officials have done recently, coupled with the reintegration plans, reflects a perilous misunderstanding of terrorism as an existential threat. ADC warned that reintegrating terrorists without establishing clear accountability mechanisms and ensuring justice for victims constitutes an injustice that dangerously encourages further terrorist activities.
Religious Leader Declares Divine Judgment on Terrorists
In a related development, Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, declared divine judgment against bandits and their sponsors during a church service tagged 'Covenant Day of Vengeance.' Speaking at the church headquarters in Ota, Ogun State, Oyedepo proclaimed that within seven days, divine retribution would strike those responsible for killings and kidnappings across Nigeria.
"Except I am not sent, in the next seven days, I declare judgment upon those responsible for these disasters and their sponsors in Jesus' name," the cleric asserted. He added that the coming week would be marked by "testimonies of vengeance" for the nation, emphasizing that God's intervention is imminent. During his sermon on pathways to sanctification, Bishop Oyedepo urged congregants to resist spiritual laxity, stressing that ungodliness blocks supernatural breakthroughs and stains destiny.
Military Explains Relocation of IDPs in Borno State
The military has provided clarification regarding the relocation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from makeshift camps in Mongunu, Borno State. Following years of insurgent attacks on rural communities, large numbers of IDPs had been housed in temporary structures in Mongunu. However, intelligence revealed that these makeshift camps were providing safe havens for Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters conducting attacks in the town.
Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for HQ Sector 3 OPHK/MNJTF, Lieutenant Ayodeji Abiodun, explained that new camps have been constructed within Mongunu to house the displaced persons. He noted that the two new locations have repeatedly come under direct attack from terrorists operating from the Marte axis. While most IDPs have moved to the new camps, those from the Marte axis have refused relocation and chosen to remain in the makeshift structures.
Atiku Abubakar Praises Military Rescue Operation
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has commended Nigerian soldiers for their successful rescue of abducted passengers, including candidates of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), in Benue State. In a statement posted on his social media platform, Atiku praised the troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) for their professionalism and dedication to duty.
"The gallant troops of OPWS have once again demonstrated courage, professionalism and an unyielding commitment to the protection of innocent Nigerians," he stated. Atiku specifically lauded the rescue operation along the Makurdi-Otukpo road, noting that it had helped secure the future of the affected students. "I commend our brave men and women in uniform for the successful rescue of the abducted passengers along the Makurdi-Otukpo road, including young UTME candidates whose futures remain bright because of this timely intervention," Atiku added. "Their sacrifice and vigilance continue to inspire hope across our nation."
