(DDM) – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government following Nigeria’s ranking as the fourth most terror-affected country in the 2026 Global Terrorism Index.
The party condemned the administration for what it described as a “gross failure to safeguard the lives and properties of Nigerians,” highlighting a persistent security crisis that has plagued multiple regions, including the North-East, North-West, and parts of the South.
According to the Global Terrorism Index report, Nigeria’s elevated position is linked to ongoing insurgency, banditry, and violent extremism, resulting in thousands of deaths and widespread destruction of homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Analysts point out that the nation’s security architecture under APC has struggled to contain groups such as Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and organized criminal gangs.
PDP officials emphasized that while the index reflects global trends, it also underscores the impact of domestic policy failures. They argue that insufficient intelligence coordination, poorly equipped security forces, and delayed policy interventions have exacerbated the vulnerability of citizens.
The opposition party also drew attention to the human toll of terrorism, including internal displacement, economic disruptions, and the erosion of public confidence in government institutions. In their statement, PDP called for immediate reforms in the security sector, urging the government to adopt proactive, community-based, and intelligence-led strategies to curb insurgency and criminal networks.
Experts cited in the report warn that Nigeria’s position on the index could deter foreign investment, tourism, and international partnerships, potentially compounding socio-economic challenges already heightened by inflation, unemployment, and declining infrastructure development.
The PDP further criticized the APC for prioritizing political consolidation over effective governance, arguing that inadequate attention to security has allowed terrorism to flourish unchecked. “The people of Nigeria deserve safety, protection, and accountable leadership,” the statement read, stressing that failure to act decisively could have long-term consequences for national stability.
The opposition’s call to action includes measures such as increased funding for the military, modernization of counter-terrorism units, community policing initiatives, and stronger intelligence sharing across state and federal levels.
Observers note that Nigeria’s high ranking in the index is a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms, as terror groups continue to exploit weaknesses in governance and institutional response.
PDP concluded its statement by urging citizens to remain vigilant and for the government to prioritize human security, warning that “the clock is ticking for lives lost, livelihoods destroyed, and a nation at risk.”
