ADC Slams Tinubu’s UK Trip Amid Borno Bombings, Mounting Death Toll in Maiduguri!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan, Editor-in-Chief | Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has sharply criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his recent trip to the United Kingdom, describing the move as “ill-timed and insensitive” amid ongoing security crises in northeastern Nigeria, particularly in Maiduguri, where fresh bombings have claimed dozens of lives.

In a strongly worded statement released on Monday, the opposition party condemned the President’s absence at a time when communities in Borno State are grappling with renewed insurgent attacks and mass burials of victims, including civilians and security personnel. The ADC argued that the President’s presence in Nigeria during such a critical period would have demonstrated leadership, empathy, and commitment to national security.

The latest attacks in Maiduguri have reignited concerns over the resurgence of extremist violence in the region. Reports indicate that multiple explosions rocked parts of the city, targeting both civilian populations and military installations. The attacks have been linked to remnants of insurgent groups operating in the Lake Chad Basin, with security analysts warning of a potential regrouping of militants.

Local authorities and emergency responders confirmed that the death toll includes both civilians and members of the Nigerian armed forces, with dozens more injured. Hospitals in Maiduguri have reportedly been overwhelmed, while displaced families continue to seek refuge in already congested camps.

The ADC, in its response, questioned the administration’s priorities, stating that the President’s foreign trip sends the wrong signal to grieving families and frontline troops. “At a time when Nigerians are burying their loved ones and soldiers are making the ultimate sacrifice, leadership should not be absent,” the party noted.

The President’s visit to the United Kingdom has been officially described by government sources as a working trip aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and attracting foreign investment. However, critics argue that such engagements could have been postponed in light of the escalating security situation at home.

Security experts have long warned that despite significant military gains in previous years, insurgent groups have adapted their tactics, shifting to asymmetric warfare, including suicide bombings and coordinated attacks on soft targets. The resurgence of violence in Maiduguri—once considered relatively secure compared to rural areas—has raised alarms about intelligence gaps and operational challenges within the security architecture.

Civil society organizations and local leaders have also joined in calling for urgent government action. Many have urged the federal government to intensify intelligence gathering, improve troop welfare, and enhance collaboration with regional partners to address cross-border insurgency.

Meanwhile, residents of Maiduguri continue to live under the shadow of fear and uncertainty. Markets and public spaces have seen reduced activity, while security presence has been heightened across the city. Community leaders have appealed for calm but insist that lasting peace can only be achieved through sustained and strategic interventions.

While the presidency has yet to issue a direct response to the ADC’s criticism, officials maintain that governance continues uninterrupted, with security agencies actively engaged in counterinsurgency operations. Nonetheless, the optics of the President’s absence during a national tragedy have fueled political debate and public scrutiny.

As Nigeria confronts persistent security challenges, the situation in Borno State underscores the urgent need for cohesive leadership, responsive governance, and renewed commitment to protecting lives and restoring stability in affected regions.

Sources:
BBC News, Al Jazeera, Reuters, Channels Television, Premium Times Nigeria

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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