The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday condemned the deadly bomb blasts that rocked Maiduguri, Borno State capital on Monday night, killing at least 23 people and injuring 108 others.

According to a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party expressed deep sympathy with the victims, their families, and residents of the troubled city, adding that Maiduguri has endured prolonged insecurity over the years.

It described the attacks as a grim reminder of the fragile security situation nationwide, warning against a relapse into the dark days of sustained insurgent violence in the North-East.

ADC commended the first responders and security personnel for their swift intervention.

However, the party raised serious concerns over what it described a lack of leadership focus at a critical time.

It also criticised President Bola Tinubu for travelling to the United Kingdom when the attacks occurred, srressing that moments of national tragedy demand the full attention of the nation’s leadership.

It accused some key government officials of prioritising partisan political activities over urgent security responsibilities, contending that such distractions are detrimental to efforts to safeguard lives and property.

The protection of citizens, the party argued, must remain the primary responsibility of government and should not be overshadowed by political engagements or diplomatic outings.

It called on the President to immediately return to Nigeria and take decisive action to address the worsening security situation.

It urged the government to go beyond routine condemnations by taking full responsibility for preventable loss of lives, including providing compensation to families of victims, both civilians and military personnel.

It warned that the continued loss of lives to violent attacks across the country is unacceptable, stressing that Nigeria cannot afford to normalise such tragedies.