By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.

Nigeria’s rapid response to the attempted coup in neighboring Benin Republic has drawn praise from one of the country’s major political parties — but also ignited criticism over what it calls the government’s failure to show similar resolve in tackling domestic insecurity.

In a strongly worded statement, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) said it “welcomes Nigeria’s swift intervention” to defend constitutional order in Benin. But the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, argued that the government’s speed highlights a glaring contradiction.

“The government’s ability to act quickly throws into sharp relief its slow and haphazard response to the banditry and violent crime devastating communities across Nigeria,” the statement read.

The ADC warned that Nigeria’s unilateral action in Benin, though expedient, must still conform to constitutional requirements, insisting that any external military or security deployment must be ratified by the National Assembly.

The party questioned the basis for Nigeria’s inconsistent foreign policy reactions, asking why a similar urgency was not shown during the crisis in Guinea-Bissau, where a former Nigerian president was caught amid instability.

“What determines when Nigeria acts firmly and when it delays?” the ADC asked, adding that the disparity strengthens suspicions that foreign influence may have shaped the government’s actions in Benin.

Beyond regional diplomacy, the ADC used the moment to renew criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s security strategy, accusing the government of “outrageous incompetence” in dealing with terrorism, banditry, and violent crime at home.

“A government that can act swiftly abroad must also act decisively at home,” the party stated.
“The defence of democracy begins with the protection of Nigerian lives.”

Despite reaffirming its stance against unconstitutional seizure of power, the ADC stressed that the ultimate safeguard against coups in Africa lies in good governance — improving citizens’ welfare and fostering political tolerance.

As Nigeria positions itself as a defender of democracy in West Africa, the party argues, it must first demonstrate the same commitment within its own borders.