By: Daure David
In a bold and scathing critique, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, representing Borno North under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has publicly condemned the Tinubu/Shettima administration over its handling of the nation’s worsening security situation, particularly in the North-East.
Speaking during a heated session at the National Assembly on Monday, Senator Monguno expressed deep frustration over what he described as the federal government’s failure to safeguard the lives and property of Nigerians — a constitutional responsibility he believes the current administration has woefully neglected.
“Any government that fails to protect its citizens shouldn’t last and does not deserve to remain in power,” Monguno declared, his voice resonating through the chamber.
The Senator’s statement comes in the wake of renewed attacks by insurgents in Borno and Yobe states, resulting in the deaths of dozens and displacement of hundreds. Communities in Borno North have continued to face unrelenting violence despite years of promises by successive administrations to bring lasting peace to the region.
Monguno, a senior member of the APC and a known ally of Vice President Kashim Shettima, shocked many political observers with his public rebuke, signaling growing internal dissent within the ruling party. He emphasized that the loyalty of lawmakers should first and foremost lie with the people who elected them, not party lines or political alliances.
“I cannot, in good conscience, continue to defend a government that has failed my people,” he said. “We were promised renewed hope. What we got is renewed bloodshed.”
His remarks have sparked mixed reactions across the political landscape, with opposition lawmakers praising the Senator’s courage, while some APC stalwarts privately expressed concern over the growing cracks within the party.
The Presidency has yet to issue an official response, but a source within Aso Rock described Monguno’s comments as “unfortunate and ill-timed,” arguing that the government is “doing its best” in the fight against insecurity.
Meanwhile, security analysts warn that the rising tension within the APC, coupled with deteriorating conditions in conflict-prone zones, could have significant political consequences ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As public outcry grows, all eyes remain on the Tinubu administration to respond not just with words, but decisive action — or risk further erosion of public trust and internal party cohesion.
