ADC Slams Tinubu for Attending Argungu Fishing Festival Amid Surge in Killings and Kidnappings

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised President Bola Tinubu for attending the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival amid a surge in insecurity across Nigeria.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party expressed deep concern over the President’s decision to participate in the cultural event in Kebbi State while credible reports indicate that nearly 1,300 Nigerians have been killed in acts of violence over the past 41 days.

The ADC highlighted that innocent citizens and their families continue to bear the tragic consequences of terrorism, abductions, and banditry, even as the President was present at the festival. The party described the timing as particularly troubling, suggesting it conveys a sense of detachment from the nation’s security challenges.

The criticism comes against the backdrop of recent deadly incidents, including a major attack in Kwara State’s Kaiama Local Government Area earlier this month, where extremists killed scores of residents in villages such as Woro and Nuku. Reports from various sources place the death toll from that single event at over 160, contributing to the broader tally of violence in the North-Central region, which has emerged as a focal point for such attacks.

Adding to the unease, the ADC pointed to a video purportedly released by terrorists connected to the Kaiama abductions. In the footage, the group claimed to hold 176 captives—far exceeding official figures previously cited—and appeared to challenge government accounts. This, the party argued, demonstrates a troubling erosion of state authority and deterrence, as non-state actors grow bold enough to publicly contradict official narratives.

The statement further noted fresh reports of terrorist activity in Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State as recently as the previous night, underscoring the ongoing threat in the region.

The ADC reiterated its longstanding opposition to the payment of ransoms to terrorists, whether directly or through disguised “rescue operations.” While emphasising that the safe return of victims remains the priority, the party warned that such practices only entrench a criminal economy, creating perverse incentives for further kidnappings. It described kidnapping as having evolved into a commercial enterprise for these groups, who are determined to maximise gains in any subsequent negotiations.

President Tinubu attended the 61st edition of the Argungu festival on Saturday, where he described the large gathering—drawing over 50,000 participants—as a symbol of returning stability and normalcy in Kebbi State and beyond. He pledged continued federal support for agriculture, tourism, and food security, and commended organisers for reviving the historic event after a hiatus.

However, the ADC maintained that such public engagements risk sending the wrong message at a time when security demands urgent and undivided attention from the nation’s leadership. The party called for stronger measures to address the deteriorating security landscape, particularly the apparent consolidation of terrorist influence in vulnerable areas.