The Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Enugu State, Comrade David Ani, has condemned the federal government’s handling of insecurity, describing as a “national embarrassment” the revelation that Nigerian security operatives reportedly instructed terrorists to release schoolchildren abducted in Kebbi State.

Speaking to journalists in Enugu, Ani accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of failing in its constitutional duty to protect citizens, warning that insecurity in Nigeria has reached catastrophic levels.

“It is shocking that our security operatives were directed to engage terrorists instead of neutralising them and rescuing abducted victims. This is a national embarrassment,” Ani said.

He highlighted the increasing prevalence of killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks across the country, noting that citizens are now afraid to travel, farm, or move freely. He further criticised the government for allowing highways to be deserted, communities traumatised, and families repeatedly displaced.

Ani described the public statement made by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga, confirming that security forces instructed terrorists to release victims, as “deeply shocking” and a sign of government inaction. He said the pattern of attacks shows that Nigeria’s security apparatus is failing and that the federal government has lost operational control over critical regions.

According to him, the security crisis has reached a level where even schools in Abuja have suspended academic activities due to threats of terrorist attacks, calling it a “complete national humiliation.”

Ani also criticised the National Assembly, accusing lawmakers of abandoning their oversight responsibilities and becoming a “praise-singing institution” that shields the presidency instead of holding it accountable for security failures.

He urged civil society organisations, pro-democracy groups, and activist networks like the Take It Back Movement to mobilise and demand accountability, warning that failure to confront the insecurity crisis could lead to further destabilisation and national collapse.

Ani went as far as to suggest that President Tinubu should consider resigning if unable to secure the country, describing such a step as the “most honourable path” before Nigerians exert constitutional and democratic pressure.

“Unless Nigerians speak out collectively, insecurity will continue to spread and eventually overwhelm the entire country,” Ani said, stressing that the situation has reached an urgent turning point.