The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has commended the Federal Government for its swift intervention following the attempted coup in the Benin Republic but called for the same level of urgency in tackling insecurity within Nigeria.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party applauded the government’s prompt action in defending constitutional order in the neighbouring country. It noted, however, that the speed of the intervention highlights the administration’s slow, inconsistent, and often ineffective response to escalating banditry and violent crime across Nigeria.
ADC stressed that while President Bola Tinubu’s intervention may have been expedient, it must still comply with constitutional provisions requiring National Assembly approval for military or security deployments outside the country.
The statement questioned the inconsistency in Nigeria’s foreign policy responses, recalling the government’s delayed reaction during the crisis in Guinea-Bissau, even when a former Nigerian President was trapped in the turmoil.
“Consistency in foreign interventions is essential for any nation aspiring to lead the sub-region on democracy and stability,” the party said, warning that selective responses fuel allegations that the Benin intervention was influenced by a more powerful external actor.
ADC further expressed concern that the government could act with speed abroad but has failed to demonstrate the same urgency in confronting insurgency, terrorism, and banditry that continue to devastate communities at home.
“A government that can act swiftly abroad must also act decisively at home,” the party noted. “Defending democracy begins with protecting Nigerian lives, restoring security, and rebuilding public trust.”
While reaffirming its opposition to extra-constitutional transitions of power, the ADC emphasized that the most effective safeguard against coups is fulfilling democracy’s promise through good governance, improved livelihoods, and tolerance for opposition voices.
