The 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has said the Nigerian government possesses the capacity to secure the country, insisting that terrorist groups are not more powerful than the state.
Speaking during a televised programme, Adebayo expressed confidence in Nigeria’s security architecture, stressing that with the right leadership and commitment, insecurity can be effectively tackled.
According to him, “the government can protect every Nigerian,” dismissing narratives that suggest otherwise. He further argued that “terrorists can’t be stronger” than the Nigerian state if appropriate measures are taken.
The SDP chieftain emphasised that the persistence of insecurity is not due to a lack of capability but rather issues related to governance and the effective deployment of resources.
Adebayo maintained that Nigeria’s armed forces and security agencies have the necessary training and capacity to address security challenges across the country, noting that decisive action and proper coordination are critical to achieving lasting peace.
He also called for accountability in leadership, urging authorities to prioritise the safety of citizens and demonstrate the political will required to defeat insurgency and other forms of violent crime.
The former presidential candidate reiterated that restoring security should remain a central responsibility of government, adding that public confidence can only be rebuilt when citizens feel adequately protected.
His comments come amid ongoing concerns over insecurity in various parts of the country, with calls mounting for more robust and effective responses from the government.
