Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on political leaders to prioritize Nigeria’s national interest over partisan considerations.
The party made this known while reacting to comments made by the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, regarding the recent designation of Nigeria by the United States as a “country of particular concern” and the accompanying warning of possible sanctions.
Obi had earlier described the U.S. decision as “deeply concerning,” voicing alarm over the state of insecurity and urging the government to safeguard citizens’ lives and freedoms.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Lagos, APC’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Seye Oladejo, cautioned that national issues of such sensitivity should not be turned into political tools.
According to Oladejo, Obi’s reaction reflected “selective outrage” and an attempt to draw political mileage from a delicate national matter instead of showing true statesmanship.
He accused the former presidential candidate of “grandstanding and seeking attention” from Nigeria’s temporary challenges.
“National unity and integrity must guide every public reaction to international reports about Nigeria,” Oladejo stressed, urging both citizens and political figures to defend the country’s image through responsible communication and patriotic engagement.
He added that political rivalry should never outweigh the shared duty of protecting Nigeria’s reputation.
“The interest of Nigeria must always rise above politics. We all have a duty to defend our nation’s dignity,” he said.
Oladejo noted that President Bola Tinubu’s administration was already taking “bold and strategic steps” to enhance security and strengthen governance structures.
He explained that ongoing reforms were improving military coordination, intelligence sharing, and the use of technology in combating insecurity.
According to him, the Federal Government is also addressing the economic roots of insecurity through targeted reforms and job creation initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He appealed for public patience and support, saying the positive results of the administration’s policies would soon become evident.
Oladejo further emphasized that patriotism should remain a shared national value, calling for collaboration and constructive dialogue across party lines.
He noted that “development and stability can only thrive when the nation speaks with one voice,” urging Nigerians to reject divisive rhetoric.
While welcoming constructive criticism, the APC spokesman warned against statements that could undermine public confidence in the country’s progress.
He reaffirmed the party’s belief that Nigeria would overcome its current difficulties through unity, resilience, and collective commitment.
It will be recalled that the United States recently re-designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged violations of religious freedom—a move the Federal Government has firmly rejected, describing it as inaccurate and reaffirming its commitment to protecting the rights and freedoms of all citizens.
