The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly responded to comments by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which alleged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had “surrendered” to terrorists following temporary school closures in some parts of the country.
In a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, Mogaji (Hon.) Seye Oladejo, the Lagos APC described the PDP’s remarks as “misleading” and “politically motivated,” insisting that recent government actions were part of coordinated national security measures.
Oladejo said the successful rescue of the 38 abducted worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State, as well as ongoing efforts to secure other kidnap victims, demonstrated “strategic leadership and effective coordination” by the Tinubu administration. He argued that the PDP’s criticism failed to acknowledge recent gains made by security agencies.
Tinubu’s Cancelled Foreign Trip Defended
The Lagos APC also addressed PDP’s comments describing President Tinubu’s cancelled foreign trip as “tokenism.” According to the party, the President’s decision to remain in the country to supervise security operations “reflects responsibility and focus,” not weakness.
Oladejo maintained that suspending international engagements to monitor rescue efforts was consistent with the President’s role as Commander-in-Chief.
Temporary School Closures Described as Preventive Measure
Responding to PDP’s allegations that shutting down schools was a sign of state failure, the Lagos APC said the temporary suspension of academic activities in affected communities was based on security intelligence and was aimed at protecting pupils and teachers.
“The measures being taken are preventive and strategic, not acts of surrender,” the statement noted.
APC Lists Security Reforms
The party highlighted ongoing reforms in the defence and security sectors, including leadership changes, enhanced inter-agency coordination, and increased surveillance capacity. According to the statement, these efforts have contributed to recent breakthroughs in counter-terrorism operations.
Oladejo added that the administration had shown “more political will in one year than previous governments demonstrated in over a decade.”
APC Says PDP’s Reactions Are Politically Driven
The Lagos APC concluded that Nigeria’s improving security climate and stabilising economy may be contributing to heightened political tension between parties.
“It is important for the opposition to avoid politicising national security,” Oladejo said. “The government remains committed to securing lives and property across the country.”
