ADC Criticises Tinubu’s Argungu Trip Amid Rising Kwara Insecurity

The African Democratic Congress on Sunday faulted President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to Kebbi State, where he attended the Argungu Fishing Festival, saying the trip came at a time when insecurity is worsening in parts of the country, especially in Kwara State.

The party said the President should have focused on rising attacks and abductions instead of participating in a public celebration.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said the security situation in Kwara has deteriorated, with reports of frequent attacks and kidnappings in communities such as Kaiama and Patigi local government areas.

The party noted that within the past 41 days, many Nigerians have reportedly lost their lives in violent incidents across the country, while several others, including women and children, remain in captivity.

President Tinubu had visited Kebbi on Saturday for a one-day trip during which he commissioned projects and took part in the fishing festival. However, the ADC argued that the timing of the visit raised concerns, given reports that armed groups are expanding their operations in parts of Kwara State.

The party said there are signs that these groups may be trying to use some areas as safe havens.

The ADC also referred to a video allegedly released by kidnappers following recent abductions in Kaiama, where the number of victims mentioned differed from official figures.

The party said such developments suggest a weakening of deterrence and raise questions about how security information is being managed. It added that attacks appear to be spreading northward within Kwara, increasing fear among residents.

According to the party, the situation in Kwara should not be seen as an isolated problem because of its links to neighbouring states such as Oyo and Niger. It warned that continued violence along the Kaiama corridor and around the Kainji Lake forest area could create wider risks for the North Central and South West regions.

The ADC stated that while the safe return of abducted victims remains important, paying ransom, whether openly or secretly, could encourage further kidnappings.

The party said kidnapping seems to have become a source of income for criminal groups and that any approach that fuels this trend could worsen insecurity.

The party called on the Federal Government to carry out a strong and coordinated rescue operation to secure the release of all abducted persons.

It also urged the government to provide clear information to the public on the number of victims and to conduct a security review of affected forest areas.

The ADC further recommended stronger cooperation among security agencies in Kwara, Niger and Oyo states to block the movement of armed groups.

While pledging to support genuine efforts to fight terrorism, the ADC said it would continue to hold the government accountable and urged authorities to act quickly to prevent further loss of lives and restore public confidence.