By Rafiyat Sadiq
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi for describing Nigeria as a “killing field” under President Bola Tinubu.
Obi had alleged that deaths recorded since Tinubu assumed office had exceeded 10,000. But in a statement on Monday, the Lagos APC dismissed the claim as “reckless, unfounded and driven by political desperation”, insisting that the security situation in the country has recorded significant improvements under the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Citing figures from the Ministry of Defence and Defence Headquarters, the APC said that between August 2023 and April 2025, security forces neutralised 9,415 terrorists, arrested more than 14,000 suspects, and rescued over 10,000 hostages. It added that stolen crude oil valued at about ₦83 billion was also recovered during the period.
The party detailed achievements from military operations across different regions. It noted that Operation Hadin Kai in the North-East killed 1,246 terrorists, secured 2,467 arrests and freed nearly 2,000 hostages. In the North-West, Operation Fasan Yamma was said to have eliminated 1,374 bandits, with over 2,100 others either arrested or surrendering, while more than 3,000 civilians were rescued.
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It also referenced recent air strikes in Katsina State where 35 militants were killed and 76 hostages freed, though one child lost his life in the operation. Similar raids in Borno State, the statement added, neutralised dozens of extremists and restored calm in affected communities.
The Lagos APC further highlighted efforts to boost the Nigerian Air Force, noting the acquisition of new aircraft which enabled close to 10,000 sorties in counter-terrorism and anti-sabotage operations. It also pointed to increased local production of military equipment, including tactical vehicles, ammunition, and drones by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).
Quoting a report by the Coalition for Human Rights and Freedom (CHRF), the party maintained that more than 13,500 criminals have been killed and close to 10,000 hostages rescued through coordinated operations in the past 20 months.
“It is regrettable that Mr Obi has chosen to spread fear and paint Nigeria in the darkest colours rather than acknowledge clear progress,” the statement read. “Our armed forces are holding their ground and saving lives daily through relentless sacrifice and commitment.”
The Lagos APC reaffirmed confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership and praised the security agencies for their efforts, urging critics to avoid “baseless political rhetoric” and recognise the gains in restoring national security.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
