The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has blamed President Bola Tinubu for the rising violence in Benue State, accusing him of being unbothered by the killings that have left hundreds dead.
In a statement on Monday, June 16, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, criticised Tinubu for failing to act decisively in the face of repeated attacks across the country.
“The Peoples Democratic Party in very strong terms condemns the gruesome massacre of over 200 Nigerians, including children, in Benue State, describing it as another horrifying chapter in the history of our nation under the unresponsive All Progressives Congress government,” the statement read.
Ologunagba alleged that the Federal Government, led by the All Progressives Congress (APC), has been indifferent, choosing to shift blame and release “lame” press statements instead of taking urgent steps to protect Nigerians.
He said, “The PDP is alarmed by reports of how terrorists and bandits invaded and overran communities in series of coordinated daily bloody attacks, unleashing violence, murdering hundreds of defenseless compatriots unchallenged, while the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led APC government remains largely unconcerned.”
The party further accused the President of encouraging such attacks through what it described as a “lethargic approach” to security.
“It is clear that the assailants marauding communities in various States of our country are being emboldened by President Tinubu’s lethargic approach to security as well as the alleged complicity of the APC which has failed to decisively confront the situation given its reported connection with terrorist interests,” it said.
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Calling on the President to show leadership, the PDP stated, “President Tinubu should be held responsible for the killings in Nigeria having not demonstrated the will and commitment expected of a Commander-in-Chief in the fight against terrorism in our country.
“Instead, he has remained largely aloof and resorted to passing the buck with his aides issuing lame press statements without corresponding urgent presidential action to guarantee the security of citizens.”
Ologunagba warned that Tinubu and the APC appear overwhelmed and more interested in politics than in protecting Nigerians.
“The obvious fact is that President Tinubu and the APC are overwhelmed and have abandoned the security and wellbeing of citizens which are the primary purpose of government.
“Instead, they are focused on politics and illusive re-election in 2027 while leaving the nation at the mercy of outlaws who have killed over 600,000 Nigerians in the last two years.”
The party urged Tinubu to “end his lethargic approach to security,” visit affected communities in Benue State, and take immediate action to stop the killings.
The PDP also commended security forces for their bravery and expressed condolences to the families of the victims. It urged the armed forces to remain committed to defending Nigerians across the country.