ADC Accuses Government Over Talks With Bandits

The African Democratic Congress has accused the Federal Government of cutting deals with bandits instead of confronting insecurity.

The party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, raised the alarm during an interview on Channels Television, pointing to rising attacks across border communities and northern states.

He said criminals have become more daring in recent weeks, linking the surge to global attention following Nigeria’s recent designation as a Country of Particular Concern. He noted that armed groups now seek visibility and often claim attacks to draw more attention.

Abdullahi criticised government officials for what he described as confusing accounts of how kidnappings are handled. He said statements suggesting kidnappers voluntarily freed victims do not match the reality of the growing threat.

He pointed to comments by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga, who said security agencies know the identities and locations of the groups behind mass abductions but are limited by concerns over civilian safety. Abdullahi argued that this confirms ongoing back-channel dealings with criminals.

He warned that negotiating with bandits exposes the country to repeated attacks, citing recent kidnappings in Kwara communities where fresh abductions occurred shortly after earlier victims were released. He said such actions encourage criminals to strike again.

Abdullahi said the government may want quick successes, but relying on deals with armed groups only deepens insecurity and signals weakness. He urged authorities to adopt a firm and transparent approach that prevents further violence.