By DAYO ADESULU
The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, has sharply criticized President Bola Tinubu’s upcoming visit to Benue State, labeling it a “belated reaction” and highlighting the administration’s ongoing indifference to the rising violence and insecurity plaguing various regions in Nigeria.
In an exclusive interview on Eagle 102.5 FM’s Frontline program, Dr. Tanko expressed concern over the President’s timing and the government’s failure to address the security crisis effectively. His comments came after a tragic incident on Friday, October 13, 2025, where at least 147 lives were lost in violent attacks in Yelewata, near Makurdi, the state capital.
Dr. Tanko remarked, “This visit is not only overdue but indicative of a troubling pattern of neglect by the government.” He pointed out that similar violent attacks have repeatedly occurred in states like Sokoto, Zamfara, Borno, and Benue, yet the government’s response has been lackluster until lives are lost.
He criticized the federal government’s tendency to react with short-term solutions, such as distributing food palliatives and relief items, instead of implementing comprehensive security measures. “Nobody has been held accountable. Has anyone inquired about the reasons behind these attacks? Have the victims’ voices been heard?” he questioned, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
Dr. Tanko expressed dismay at the government’s inadequate response to the security crisis, stating, “Noodles are not the answer to insecurity. It is unacceptable for the government to respond to mass killings with late deliveries of food items. Do the lives of Nigerians not matter?”
He also addressed recent statements by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who labeled the country’s security funding as a national embarrassment. Dr. Tanko echoed these sentiments, asserting that the meager allocations to essential security agencies, such as the Nigerian Police Force and Nigeria Immigration Service, undermine efforts to combat terrorism and cross-border crimes. He remarked on the government’s inability to recognize and address recurring issues within the security sector.
Dr. Tanko outlined that the roots of the current security challenges extend beyond the Tinubu administration, tracing back to previous governments, including those of former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari. He criticized President Tinubu for lacking a clear and effective strategy to tackle the country’s security issues upon taking office.
The Obidient Movement leader called for a decisive and strategic approach to security, urging the President to declare a national state of emergency. “The entire country is in dire need of a state of emergency. We cannot afford to play politics while lives are lost daily,” he warned, emphasizing the importance of protecting every Nigerian.
On the subject of democracy, Dr. Tanko condemned President Tinubu’s June 12 Democracy Day speech, labeling it as a facade of authoritarianism disguised in democratic rhetoric. He pointed out that celebrating democracy while allowing democratic institutions to erode is contradictory.
He accused President Tinubu of fostering internal divisions within his party and undermining opposition forces as a strategy to consolidate power. “His enjoyment of chaos within other political parties is undemocratic. This chaos will inevitably affect the APC, and we are already witnessing its consequences.”
Dr. Tanko urged the international community to closely observe President Tinubu’s administration, suggesting that a democratic watchlist should be established to monitor its actions. “What we are witnessing is a gradual shift toward authoritarianism, which should alarm anyone who values democracy,” he stated.
He called on civil society, the media, and all Nigerians to remain vigilant and engaged, asserting that defending democracy is a collective responsibility, not just the duty of politicians.
