The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused President Bola Tinubu’s government of failing to curb escalating terror attacks, labeling Nigeria the fourth global terror epicentre. A recent report by the ADC highlights a surge in violence linked to groups like Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa, with over 2,000 casualties recorded in 2024 alone. The criticism comes as communities in northern Nigeria face daily threats, displacement, and economic collapse, raising urgent questions about governance and security.
Rising Terror Attacks
Communities in states like Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa have witnessed a sharp rise in militant attacks, with villages destroyed and thousands displaced. The ADC’s analysis, cited by Vanguard News, reveals that over 70% of terror incidents in 2024 occurred in these regions, where security forces are stretched thin. “The government’s inaction has turned entire areas into lawless zones,” said ADC spokesperson Amina Yusuf. “Families are living in fear, and basic services like healthcare and education are non-existent.”
The terror groups have exploited weak governance and corruption, according to the report. Vanguard News’ investigation found that over 40% of security budgets are siphoned through mismanagement, leaving frontline troops under-equipped. “Without accountability, the cycle of violence will continue,” warned analyst Chukwuma Okoro. The situation has forced many to flee, with over 500,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in camps across the north.
Economic Strain on Communities
The terror crisis has crippled local economies, particularly in agrarian regions. Farmers in Borno state report losing 60% of their harvests to attacks, while traders in Maiduguri face extortion by armed groups. “We can’t farm in fear,” said farmer Musa Abubakar. “The government hasn’t provided alternatives.” The ripple effects are felt nationwide, as Nigeria’s food insecurity worsens, with 18 million people now facing acute hunger, per the World Food Programme.
Small businesses in urban centers like Lagos and Abuja are also struggling. A 2024 survey by the Nigerian Chamber of Commerce found that 35% of businesses in the north reported revenue drops of over 50% due to insecurity. “Investors are fleeing,” said Lagos-based entrepreneur Nneka Okoro. “This isn’t just a security issue—it’s an economic disaster.” The Tinubu administration’s recent economic reforms, including currency devaluation, have further strained households, compounding the crisis.
Social Unrest and Displacement
Displacement has fractured communities, with over 2 million people living in overcrowded camps. Health workers in Borno describe dire conditions, with cholera outbreaks and limited access to medicine. “Children are dying from preventable diseases,” said Dr. Zainab Ali. “The government’s neglect is criminal.” Social cohesion is also eroding, as distrust in authorities grows. In Yobe, some communities have formed vigilante groups to protect themselves, a move the ADC warns could deepen ethnic tensions.
Education has been another casualty. Over 10,000 schools in the north are closed or under threat, leaving 2 million children out of education. “We’re losing a generation,” said education activist Kemi Adeyemi. “Without schools, these kids have no future.” The ADC’s report calls for immediate international aid and domestic accountability, but critics argue Tinubu’s focus on economic reforms has diverted attention from the security crisis.
Community Responses and Resistance
Despite the bleak outlook, grassroots efforts are emerging. In Kano, a local NGO has launched a trauma support program for IDPs, while farmers in Gombe state are experimenting with drought-resistant crops. “We’re trying to rebuild, but we need the government’s help,” said community leader Bashir Gwarzo. However, these initiatives are underfunded and limited in scale.
Vanguard News’ analysis highlights a growing public demand for change. Protests in Abuja and Lagos have seen thousands march against insecurity and corruption, with slogans like “Tinubu, Take Responsibility.” Yet, the ADC warns that without systemic reforms, the cycle of violence will persist. “The clock is ticking,” said ADC leader Ibrahim Hassan. “Nigeria cannot afford another year of failure.”
