The African Democratic Congress opposition party lambasted President Bola Tinubu on Thursday for skipping a national ceremony honoring Nigeria’s fallen soldiers, calling his absence a sign of misplaced priorities amid rampant insecurity.
The criticism came as the country marked Armed Forces Remembrance Day, an annual January 15 event commemorating military personnel lost in the civil war, peacekeeping missions and ongoing conflicts.
In a scathing statement, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi said: “It is therefore deeply troubling that the President of the Federal Republic is absent and unavailable on a day meant to symbolise solidarity with our armed forces and the families who continue to bear the cost of Nigeria’s security failures.”
He added: “At a time when Nigerian soldiers are overstretched across multiple fronts, battling insurgency, banditry, and violent crime, leadership cannot be outsourced, postponed, or treated as ceremonial. The physical and moral presence of the Commander-in-Chief on this day is not optional; it is a statement of respect, responsibility, and shared sacrifice.”
The party urged a shift beyond “wreaths and words,” insisting: “Remembrance must go beyond wreaths and words. It must be reflected in leadership that shows up, takes responsibility, and places the lives of Nigerians above image management, foreign trips, or political convenience.”
Abdullahi also paid homage to the military, stating: “The ADC honours the fallen, stands with serving personnel, and recognises the quiet resilience of military families who continue to pay the ultimate price for a nation that has yet to match their sacrifice with competent governance, clear strategy, and genuine political will.”
Tinubu, who has faced scrutiny over frequent international travel, released a separate tribute via his office, hailing the sacrifices of deceased and active troops.
“Their names might not always be remembered, but their courage sustains our freedom and peace. A nation that forgets its fallen heroes loses its direction; Nigeria, however, remembers,” the president said.
Addressing bereaved relatives, he noted: “I also speak today to the families of our fallen heroes—widows, children, and loved ones. Your loss is profound, and no words can replace the sacrifices of your loved ones. They served Nigeria with honour, and our people will never forget their sacrifices.”
On current forces, Tinubu affirmed: “Today, we celebrate our serving personnel. From the frontlines to support positions, on land, sea, and air, you carry the heavy responsibility of protecting our people and sovereignty with discipline, courage, and professionalism, often far from home.”
Reiterating support, he pledged: “As President and Commander-in-Chief, I reaffirm my commitment to the welfare and dignity of our Armed Forces. A secure Nigeria stands behind those who defend it. We will continue to support them in action.”
