National Interest Should Transcend Political Divisions, Lagos APC Declares Amid US Designation Controversy
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has called for unity in addressing national challenges, criticizing recent political responses to Nigeria’s designation by the United States as a “country of particular concern.”
The statement comes in response to comments made by Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate, who expressed deep concern over the US designation and its implications for Nigeria’s security situation. Obi had urged the government to enhance its efforts in protecting citizens’ lives and freedoms.
Speaking through its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Seye Oladejo, the Lagos APC on Tuesday condemned what it termed as “selective outrage,” suggesting that Obi’s remarks represented an attempt to gain political relevance rather than demonstrate true statesmanship.
“The interest of Nigeria must always rise above politics. We all have a duty to defend our nation’s dignity,” Oladejo emphasized in his statement. He urged both political leaders and citizens to approach international reports about Nigeria with a unified voice that prioritizes national interests.
The APC spokesman highlighted the Bola Tinubu administration’s ongoing efforts to address security challenges, pointing to reforms in military coordination, enhanced intelligence sharing, and technological improvements in security operations. He also noted the government’s initiatives to tackle economic issues through reforms and job creation programs under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Addressing the broader context, Oladejo called for constructive dialogue across political lines and emphasized the importance of maintaining public confidence in the country. He stressed that development and stability require national unity and consistent messaging.
The controversy stems from the United States’ recent re-designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” regarding religious freedom violations. The Federal Government has firmly rejected this designation, describing it as inaccurate and reaffirming its commitment to protecting all citizens’ rights and freedoms.
The Lagos APC maintained that while challenges exist, the path forward requires patience, unity, and patriotic commitment from all stakeholders, emphasizing that Nigeria’s collective interests must supersede partisan considerations.
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