ADC Blasts Tinubu’s UK Trip as Bomb Attacks Kill Dozens in Maiduguri
By Passman Akpos
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned the deadly bomb explosions that rocked Maiduguri on Monday evening, describing the incident as a national tragedy that underscores Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.
In a statement released Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and injuries sustained in the coordinated attacks.
“The African Democratic Congress strongly condemns the bomb blasts that have shaken Maiduguri, leaving innocent Nigerians dead and many others injured,” the statement read.
The party extended its condolences to victims and residents of the troubled North-East city, noting that Maiduguri has endured years of violence and instability. “Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the people of Maiduguri, a city that has suffered more than its fair share of pain. Terrorism anywhere in Nigeria is an attack on all Nigerians,” the ADC added.
While commending the swift response of emergency personnel and security agencies, the party warned that the resurgence of coordinated bombings signals deeper systemic failures. It cautioned that Maiduguri must not return to an era where daily life is overshadowed by fear of attacks.
However, the ADC’s statement took a sharper tone as it criticised the nation’s leadership, particularly the absence of Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the crisis. The party described the President’s ongoing visit to the United Kingdom as troubling given the gravity of the situation at home.
“Moments like this demand the full and undivided attention of the nation’s leadership. It is therefore deeply concerning that the President is outside the country at a time when such a serious security breach has occurred,” the statement said.
The ADC further accused top government officials of prioritising politics over national security. It alleged that security institutions are being politicised while Nigerians continue to face deadly attacks.
“At a time when soldiers and civilians are being killed, those charged with protecting the country are focused on politics instead of security. This is not leadership—it is a dangerous distraction, and it is costing lives,” the party declared.
The statement also criticised what it described as a lack of empathy from the presidency, noting that no immediate public address had been made to honour victims or reassure citizens.
Calling for urgent intervention, the ADC demanded a transparent review of security operations in the North-East and a comprehensive briefing to Nigerians on the state of counter-insurgency efforts. It also urged authorities to ensure prompt medical care for the injured and adequate compensation for affected families.
Highlighting the scale of violence across the country, the party warned that Nigeria cannot continue on a path where mass casualties become routine.
“We are only in the third month of the year, and already thousands of Nigerians have been killed in violent attacks. This is unacceptable. The safety of Nigerians must remain the highest priority of government at all times,” the statement concluded.
Earlier reports confirmed that at least 23 people were killed and 108 others injured following multiple explosions at three locations across Maiduguri, triggering panic among residents and prompting a large-scale emergency response.
The Borno State Police Command, through its spokesperson ASP Nahum Daso, confirmed the casualty figures, adding that investigations into the attacks are ongoing.
