Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has come under fire from the Lagos State branch of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for calling Nigeria a “killing field” under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where over 10,000 people are allegedly killed.
In a statement issued on Monday, the ruling party described Obi’s remarks as “reckless, unfounded and purely driven by political desperation,” arguing that the security situation in the country has witnessed “substantial gains” under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to the APC, which cited data from the Ministry of Defense and Defense Headquarters, troops killed 9,415 terrorists, captured over 14,000 suspects, and freed over 10,000 captives between August 2023 and April 2025. It further stated that security efforts had recovered an estimated N83 billion worth of stolen crude oil.
To support its assertions, the party emphasized regional operations. The announcement claims that 2,467 people were arrested, 1,246 terrorists were neutralized, and almost 2,000 hostages were released as a result of Operation Hadin Kai in the Northeast. In the North-West, Operation Fasan Yamma reportedly eliminated 1,374 bandits, while over 2,100 others were either captured or surrendered, with more than 3,000 civilians rescued.
It made reference to recent airstrikes in Katsina, which resulted in the deaths of 35 terrorists and the release of 76 prisoners, albeit one child unfortunately died in the process. The APC stated that similar attacks in Borno State killed dozens of militants and brought peace to areas that were at risk.
The Nigerian Air Force has been bolstered by President Tinubu’s administration with additional aircraft, allowing for approximately 10,000 sorties in counterterrorism and anti-sabotage missions, the statement added. By producing tactical vehicles, ammunition, and drones, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, or DICON, has increased local defense capability.
Citing a report from the Coalition for Human Rights and Freedom, CHRF, the Lagos APC maintained that over 13,500 criminals have been neutralized and close to 10,000 hostages rescued through coordinated military action in the last 20 months.
The statement said, “It is regrettable that Mr Obi has chosen to spread fear and paint Nigeria in the darkest colours rather than acknowledge clear progress.” “Our armed forces are not only holding their ground but also saving lives daily through relentless sacrifice and commitment.”
The party urged critics to “rise above unfounded political hyperbole and appreciate the progress accomplished in protecting the nation,” emphasizing its faith in President Tinubu’s leadership and praising security forces for their valor.
