The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has sharply criticised President Bola Tinubu over his cancellation of planned visits to South Africa and Angola, calling the move a “superficial gesture” that does nothing to address Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
In a statement issued Thursday, PDP National Publicity Secretary Comrade Ini Ememobong described the decision as the “latest and boldest example of tokenism” by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government.
The announcement, made amid nationwide outrage over the abduction of 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi State, was labelled by the opposition as largely symbolic and lacking concrete impact.
The party suggested that the President should temporarily relocate to Kebbi and other conflict-affected areas in northern Nigeria.
It argued that such a move would both challenge security agencies to act decisively and boost troop morale.
“As President and Commander-in-Chief, Tinubu must not recline in the comfort of the Presidential Villa while 25 schoolgirls remain missing,” the statement said.
It warned that without decisive action, the cancellation “amounts to nothing more than a media stunt aimed at currying public favour and sympathy.”
The PDP also highlighted the recent spate of attacks in Kwara State, asserting that such incidents reflect the daily reality of fear faced by ordinary Nigerians.
The party accused the administration of responding with “outright denials, rationalised explanations, empty assurances, and superficial gestures,” rather than implementing effective security measures.
“Nigerians are tired of symbolic gestures. What the nation urgently requires is decisive leadership, strategic action, and meaningful support for the security forces.
”The safety of citizens cannot be reduced to mere theatrics.
”Leadership must deliver tangible results or make way for those who can, ” the statement warned.
