The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has challenged President Bola Tinubu to either request local and international support to address Nigeria’s escalating insecurity or resign from office.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Ini Ememobong, PDP’s Fractional National Publicity Secretary, criticized the federal government for failing to implement a comprehensive security strategy. He warned against simplistic measures such as closing schools, describing them as ineffective and counterproductive.
The party highlighted that kidnappings across northern states have left families and communities traumatized, while state governments have taken emergency measures in response. However, the PDP said the federal government has yet to provide clear direction.
“We are aware that some state authorities have closed schools, and the Federal Government is reportedly considering similar action,” the statement said.
The PDP cautioned that school closures would amount to surrendering to terrorists, whose aim is to disrupt education and instill fear. The party also criticized the administration’s usual response to insecurity as slow and lacking empathy.
It called on the federal government to fully implement the National Policy on Safety, Security, and Violence-Free Schools, stressing the importance of community-based intelligence and rapid security response to prevent attacks.
“President Bola Tinubu and the APC-led administration must recognize that protecting lives and property is the core responsibility of government. If they cannot fulfill this duty, they should seek help locally or internationally, or resign honourably,” the statement concluded.