Tinubu vs Baba-Ahmed: Group Cites Security Gains, Rejects PRP Chair’s Claims

The Renewed Hope Labourers Network (RHOLAN), a cross-party political movement, has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s security record, saying ongoing military operations have recorded gains in the fight against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.

The group was reacting to comments by the National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, who criticised the administration’s handling of insecurity.

In a statement issued by its Director of Public Affairs, Toby Prince, RHOLAN said the assessment of the country’s security situation by the PRP chairman was inaccurate.

Mr Baba-Ahmed’s claim that children cannot go to school because of bandits does not fully reflect the progress recorded in some affected areas. Data indicate that military operations have weakened the capacity of terrorist and bandit groups, helped recover previously affected territories and supported the gradual return of normal activities, including schooling, in some communities.

RHOLAN also highlighted the establishment of Defence Special Forces Brigades in Kaduna and Niger states, the expansion of military operations, including Operations Hadin Kai and Fansan Yamma, and the recovery of illegal firearms and ammunition.

According to the group, these measures have contributed to improving access to farmlands, markets and major highways in some areas previously affected by insecurity.

On the Abuja-Kaduna highway, which Baba-Ahmed reportedly referenced in his criticism, the group pointed to increased security outposts, ongoing road reconstruction and surveillance measures as efforts aimed at improving safety for road users.

The Armed Forces have recorded progress in some key security flashpoints.