The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized the Federal Government for allowing the United States to reveal details of military strikes against terrorists on Nigerian soil before Nigerian authorities addressed the nation. The party described this as a troubling failure in security communication and national leadership.
In a statement by PDP National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong, the party expressed concern that the Federal Government’s slow response forced Nigerians to rely on foreign sources for critical updates about security operations happening within their own country.
The criticism follows reports that news of the US military strikes in Sokoto State was first made public through verified social media posts by US President Donald Trump and other American officials late Thursday night. This announcement came several hours before Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement acknowledging the operation.
The PDP argued that the Federal Government should have taken the lead in announcing the operation to properly inform Nigerians, rather than confirming reports only after they had already circulated publicly.
The statement partly read, “Nigerians were notified of the American strike on terrorists’ assets through the verified social media pages of President Trump and other American officials before the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a vague statement many hours later, offering a passive confirmation of the knowledge and cooperation of the Nigerian Government in the operation.”
While appreciating international cooperation in fighting terrorism, the PDP expressed deep concern over a communication system where foreign powers break news of security operations in Nigeria before the government does. The party also referenced reports that US military forces have previously operated in Nigeria without the government’s permission or knowledge.
The opposition party called on the Federal Government to ensure that its defense pact with the United States emphasizes joint operations that build Nigeria’s capacity, rather than relying on foreign-led precision strikes.
The PDP stated, “The Federal Government should have been the first to report the news in order to properly sensitize the Nigerian populace, instead of waiting to confirm news already in public circulation, unless they were taken unawares like the rest of the citizens.”
They urged the government to ensure that the defense agreement with the US includes joint operations that promote knowledge sharing and experiential learning, helping Nigeria sustainably combat insecurity rather than depending on fully externally-led military actions.
Can we really blame the government for delayed response, or is there more to the story? Lets discuss!
Does anyone else feel like the governments slow response is putting us all at risk? Its time for action, not excuses!
I dont get why the PDP is blaming the government for US terror strikes. Shouldnt we focus on solutions instead of pointing fingers?
Does the delay in response indicate a lack of preparedness or strategic planning? Lets discuss! #PDP #FederalGovernment #NigeriaTerrorStrikes
I think PDP has a point here, but lets not forget the complexities of international relations. Its not always black and white.
Why is the PDP blaming the government for US terror strikes in Nigeria? Seems like theyre just playing politics.
Do you think the delay in the Federal Governments response to the US terror strikes is a valid criticism by the PDP? Lets discuss!