The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly criticised Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for describing Nigeria as a “killing field” under President Bola Tinubu.
According to TheGuardian, APC spokesperson Mogaji Seye Oladejo dismissed Obi’s remarks as misleading and politically motivated. He said the comments exaggerated the country’s challenges and ignored progress in restoring national security.
APC Defends Tinubu’s Security Record
Oladejo argued that the Nigerian Armed Forces had recorded significant achievements under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He said government reports confirmed measurable improvements across different regions.
Figures from the Defence Ministry’s midterm review and Defence Headquarters’ two-year summary showed 9,415 terrorists eliminated, 3,159 suspects arrested, and 5,449 hostages rescued.
“These are not empty numbers,” Oladejo said. “They represent lives saved, communities protected, and the gradual restoration of peace.”
Military Operations Highlighted
The APC pointed to several recent security operations. In Katsina State, the military rescued 76 abducted persons, including victims of a mosque attack. Sadly, one child died during the rescue effort.
In Borno State, precision airstrikes killed 35 insurgents and restored critical ground communications. Earlier this year, a weeklong offensive led to the elimination of 76 extremists, the arrest of 72 suspects, and the rescue of eight hostages.
“These operations show determination and capability,” Oladejo said. “Our armed forces continue to degrade terrorist networks despite challenges.”
Boost in Military Hardware and Local Defence Production
Oladejo also highlighted upgrades in military equipment. The Nigerian Air Force has acquired 24 M-346 attack jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters. Pilots completed nearly 9,928 sorties and logged more than 15,900 flying hours in counterinsurgency and anti-sabotage missions.
The Nigerian Army and Navy received new tactical vehicles and patrol vessels to strengthen border and coastal defence.
In addition, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has expanded local defence manufacturing. Production now includes 4.6 million rounds of ammunition, 53 mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles, 14,000 protective gear units, and surveillance drones.
“These advances reduce our dependence on foreign suppliers and show Nigeria’s growing self-reliance in security production,” Oladejo said.
APC Warns Against Fear-Mongering
The Lagos APC insisted that Obi’s description of Nigeria as a “killing field” was inaccurate. Oladejo said verifiable data contradicted his claims and showed tangible progress.
“It is disappointing that Mr. Obi would rather spread alarm than engage constructively,” Oladejo stated, as reported by The Guardian.
He added that the Lagos APC stands firmly behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the nation’s military personnel. “Our position is clear,” he said. “Nigeria is moving forward, and those who deny progress will only be left behind in political theatrics.”
