The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has again faulted the Federal Government over its handling of the recent U.S. airstrikes in northwest Nigeria, arguing that foreign partners should not announce military operations on Nigerian soil before the government does. The party’s criticism centres on the fact that U.S. President Donald Trump publicly disclosed the strikes on social media several hours before Nigerian authorities did, raising concerns about communication strategy and national sovereignty.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP said the “inverted communication approach” undermined the government’s leadership role in informing citizens about critical security operations. The party emphasised that the Federal Government should have led with a formal announcement to properly sensitise Nigerians and manage public perception on the nature, timing and purpose of the strikes, instead of simply confirming news already circulating internationally.
While acknowledging the value of international cooperation in combating terrorism, the PDP warned that such cooperation must not come at the expense of Nigeria’s authority or effective communication with its populace. It urged the government to ensure that future defence engagements emphasise joint operations, effective communication strategies and capacity building for domestic security forces, rather than perceptions of foreign‑led actions.
The controversy reflects broader political debate over how foreign military involvement is communicated and coordinated, especially in the complex security environment of northwest Nigeria where extremist violence continues to challenge state authority.
