The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised President Bola Tinubu for failing to attend the national observance of Armed Forces Remembrance Day, describing his absence as troubling and poorly timed.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the physical and moral presence of the Commander-in-Chief at such a solemn event is a vital symbol of solidarity with serving personnel and bereaved military families, especially at a time of worsening insecurity across Nigeria.
The ADC argued that Armed Forces Remembrance Day is not a routine ceremony but a moment that demands leadership, reflection and national unity at the highest level. According to the party, the President’s absence sends the wrong message to soldiers currently deployed on multiple fronts against insurgency, banditry and other violent crimes.
It maintained that leadership in periods of national crisis should not be delegated or reduced to symbolism, insisting that the Commander-in-Chief’s attendance is a clear statement of responsibility, respect and shared sacrifice.
While honouring fallen servicemen and women and commending those still in active service, the ADC also recognised the resilience of military families, noting that they continue to shoulder the heavy emotional and social burden created by Nigeria’s security challenges.
The party stressed that remembrance must go beyond wreath-laying and speeches, calling for leadership that matches the sacrifices of the armed forces with competent governance, coherent security strategies and genuine political will, rather than image management or political convenience.
