The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has urged President Bola Tinubu to demonstrate the same speed and firmness he showed while responding to the recent coup attempt in the Benin Republic, in tackling the worsening insecurity across Nigeria.

The party said the government’s rapid deployment of support to the neighbouring country sharply contrasts with its slow and inconsistent approach to confronting banditry, terrorism and violent crime that continue to devastate communities nationwide.

On Sunday, a group of soldiers announced a takeover of the government in the Francophone West African country.

Hours later, the Benin Republic presidency said President Patrice Talon was safe, adding that the “regular” army was regaining control.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) also assisted the Beninese government by carrying out combat air patrols around Cotonou, the Benin Republic.

In a statement on Monday, Bolaji Abdullahi, national publicity secretary, ADC, urged the federal government to show similar decisiveness in tackling insurgency, banditry, and violent crime across Nigeria.

Abdullahi said the government’s ability to act quickly abroad highlights its slow and haphazard response to domestic insecurity, which is devastating communities.

He also expressed concern about democratic reversals in the West African region and stressed that the best safeguard for democracy is good governance anchored on improved livelihoods and tolerance for opposition.

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) welcomes Nigeria’s swift intervention in the Benin Republic following the announcement of a coup attempt.

“We commend the Federal Government for acting promptly to defend constitutional order in our neighbourhood. However, the government must align this intervention with the legal provisions of our Constitution.

“While the unilateral action taken by the President might have been expedient, it still requires ratification by the National Assembly for military deployment outside Nigeria,” the statement read.

The ADC spokesperson questioned why Nigeria failed to act swiftly in Guinea-Bissau, even when a former president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, was at risk.

He added that the government’s rapid response abroad raises concerns about its handling of domestic insecurity.

“Consistency in our mode of operations, especially in foreign interventions, is essential for any country that seeks to lead the sub-region on democracy and stability.

“If Nigeria could respond decisively to threats across our borders, why has it failed to act with similar urgency at home? Banditry, terrorism, and violent crime continue to hold communities hostage, displace families, abduct children, and parade themselves openly,” Abdullahi said.

He noted that defending democracy begins with protecting Nigerian lives, restoring security, and rebuilding trust between citizens and the state.

“The best safeguard against military adventurism is for elected governments to make democracy meaningful by improving citizens’ lives and allowing opposition and alternative voices to thrive,” he said.

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has celebrated his wife, the First Lady, Chief (Mrs) Titilola Adebusola Adeleke, as she marks her 60th birthday, describing her as “a pillar of support and a symbol of discipline and morality”.

In a birthday message he personally signed, the governor recalled with nostalgia how the bonding started and how the good Lord blessed the relationship with innumerable achievements and successes , noting that “ the first lady stands for all that a man wants in a woman as to discipline, self control, courtesy among others.

While praising her humility, respect for fellow human beings and capacity to manage people, the governor commended the first lady for her consistent perseverance, her passionate support for the family and her huge contributions to his development and progress in all facets of life.

“My dear wife, you have always been there for me in rough and good times. You are a strong pillar of support who strengthens me in all spheres of life. You remain a paragon of beauty, self control and discipline in your private and public conduct.

“Ever since we met, you have demonstrated your deep love and affection for me. And in the last few decades, your contributions to the family growth and successes cannot be under-estimated. Your day is therefore blessed as you are a blessing to countless beings on this earth.

“As you mark your day in good health and strong heart, I pray to the Almighty God to continue to strengthen, protect and prosper you in all your endeavours. Together, we have been winning. I know and pray that we shall continue to win together.

“As you clock 60 today, I pray for more wisdom and strength as you contribute your own quota to the development of the family and our dear state. You are an indispensable partner as we paddle the canoe of the state ship for good governance.

“My dear wife, I truly love you and I say happy blessed birthday”

Drug Use Prevention Advocate, Founder and President of SILEC Initiatives, and U.S. Department of State Exchange Alumnus, Ambassador Sunny Irakpo, has unveiled SILEC International Magazine (SIM), a groundbreaking media platform exclusively dedicated to reporting drug-related issues across Africa, the United States, and the global community.

The announcement was made during a strategic meeting with partners in New Jersey, where Ambassador Irakpo is currently participating in a series of community-based and public-safety initiatives to deepen his expertise in combating substance use disorders and illicit drug trafficking both in the United States and worldwide.

A First-of-Its-Kind Platform for Drug-Focused Journalism

Ambassador Irakpo emphasized that SIM is designed to shape public consciousness by promoting value-driven storytelling and providing credible information on the rising tide of drug abuse and illicit trafficking—a crisis he describes as “a looming danger destroying the vibrant youth populations of many nations.”

He noted that the magazine will spotlight the work of NGOs, CEOs, advocates, and policymakers, churches, and companies with strong social responsibility particularly from African perspectives, while amplifying influential voices and advancing global understanding of effective anti-drug efforts.

Drawing inspiration from media leaders such as Dele Momodu, Chairman of Ovation Media Group, and Dr. John Momoh, Chairman of Channels Television, Irakpo described SIM as “a beacon of hope and a tool for societal transformation.”

Recognizing U.S. Efforts Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking

Ambassador Irakpo commended the United States for its continued commitment to combating drug trafficking and addiction—efforts strengthened under previous and current administrations. He particularly noted that the U.S. government under President Donald Trump demonstrated “exceptional courage, political will, and capacity in confronting the opioid crisis and the destructive forces fueling illicit drug trade,” encouraging world leaders to emulate such resolve.

He reiterated that addressing substance abuse requires a combination of drug-demand reduction, citizen sensitization, international collaboration, and sustained public education.

A Platform With Social Impact and Youth Empowerment at Its Core

Irakpo highlighted SIM as a top-tier media platform that will not only drive awareness but also create employment opportunities for young people and support underprivileged students—particularly in Nigeria, where more than 20 million children remain out of school due to financial hardship.

He added that SIM will serve as a sustainability engine for the ongoing anti-drug overdose campaigns of SILEC Initiatives, a leading nonprofit that has educated and sensitized communities for nearly two decades.

Experienced Editorial Leadership

As SIM prepares for its U.S. take-off, Irakpo announced the appointment of veteran journalist Julius Eto as Chairman of the Editorial Board. Eto brings more than four decades of experience across Nigeria’s premier news organizations, including The Guardian, ThisDay, The Punch, Daily Times, and The Trumpet.

He will be joined by distinguished academics including Prof. Oscar Odion Odiboh and other seasoned professionals committed to advancing the magazine’s mission.

A Call for Media Reawakening and Global Collaboration

Ambassador Irakpo called for a media renaissance in Nigeria to strengthen societal values and elevate African leadership in global discourse. SIM, he said, intends to claim its rightful place as “an African voice on the world stage.”

With the official launch of SILEC International Magazine (SIM) scheduled for the first quarter of 2026 in the United States, Ambassador Irakpo extended an invitation to corporate organizations, development partners, and well-meaning individuals worldwide to support this far-reaching vision.

“With hope, determination, and the resilience symbolized by the eagle, SIM is prepared to soar across the globe. Members of the public are respectfully enjoined to visit our friendly, rich anti-drug abuse website, www.silecinitiatives.org.ng,” he added.