The Parliamentary Advocacy Centre (PAC) has opposed statements credited to the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Fred Agbedi, over Nigeria’s security concerns and his appeal for President Bola Tinubu to put aside political activities connected to the 2027 general elections.
Speaking through a statement issued on Sunday by its President, Dr. Itodo Vincent, the organisation said the comments failed to reflect the level of responsibility expected from senior public officials during a period of national difficulty.
PAC noted that while citizens’ concerns about insecurity and economic hardship are understandable and deserve immediate attention, political leaders should avoid using such matters to gain political advantage.
Agbedi had earlier claimed that President Tinubu appeared more focused on future electoral considerations than on tackling insecurity and improving living conditions. He also proposed that the President suspend political engagement and devote six months entirely to restoring security and accelerating economic recovery.
Reacting to those remarks, PAC maintained that Nigeria’s security challenges are longstanding issues that require broad cooperation and cannot be solved through political declarations or deadlines.
The organisation stressed that effective responses must involve collaboration among public institutions, law enforcement bodies, local communities, and leaders from different political backgrounds.
According to Dr. Vincent, moments of national concern demand thoughtful contributions and practical proposals rather than public statements capable of increasing division or shifting attention toward partisan debates.
PAC criticised the suggestion that the President should operate under an imposed timeline or face pressure linked to unresolved security concerns, arguing that such positions oversimplify a complex national problem.
The group further stated that comments of this nature risk creating unnecessary political tension and may encourage early campaign narratives ahead of the 2027 elections instead of promoting policy-based engagement.
It urged opposition figures and government officials alike to prioritise recommendations that can improve outcomes for citizens and strengthen confidence in democratic institutions.
PAC also extended sympathy to Nigerians who have suffered losses due to kidnapping, violent attacks, banditry, and related security incidents across different parts of the country.
The organisation emphasised that the pain experienced by affected families should inspire collective action rather than political exchanges.
It added that democratic governance naturally includes political activity, but national development requires leaders to balance politics with responsible administration and public accountability.
PAC encouraged stakeholders across the political landscape to support institutional progress, encourage national cohesion, and participate constructively in efforts aimed at improving security and economic performance.
Reaffirming confidence in ongoing government initiatives, the organisation called on political actors to place the country’s long-term stability ahead of partisan objectives and contribute meaningfully toward national progress.
