PDP Slams Federal Government Over U.S. Disclosure of Terror Strikes Before Nigeria

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticised the Federal Government over what it described as a troubling lapse in national security communication, following the disclosure of terror strikes carried out on Nigerian soil by the United States before Nigerian authorities addressed the nation. The opposition party said the development undermined national leadership and exposed a communication gap that left Nigerians relying on foreign sources for critical security information.

The criticism follows reports that details of U.S. military strikes against terrorist targets in Sokoto State were first made public through verified social media posts by U.S. President Donald Trump and other American officials late Thursday night. Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs only issued a statement several hours later, acknowledging the operation.

PDP Faults Delay in Government Communication

In a statement issued on Friday, the PDP, through its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, said the Federal Government’s delayed response was unacceptable, especially on a matter as sensitive as national security. The party argued that Nigerians should not learn of military operations within their own territory through announcements by foreign governments.

According to the PDP, the delay forced citizens to depend on international sources for updates on security developments that directly affect their safety and sovereignty. The party described the eventual statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as vague and reactive, rather than proactive and authoritative.

The PDP maintained that the Federal Government ought to have taken the lead in informing the public, setting the narrative, and reassuring citizens, instead of merely confirming information that was already widely circulated.

Concerns Over Sovereignty and Security Leadership

While acknowledging the importance of international cooperation in the fight against terrorism, the PDP expressed concern over what it called an “inverted communication structure,” where foreign powers announce security operations in Nigeria before Nigerian authorities do.

The party warned that such an approach weakens public confidence in national institutions and raises questions about sovereignty and operational control. It also recalled previous reports suggesting that foreign forces had entered and operated within Nigeria without clear public knowledge, describing the trend as disturbing.

The PDP stressed that effective leadership in security matters requires transparency, timely communication, and a clear demonstration that the Nigerian government remains firmly in charge of operations within its borders.

Call for Joint Operations and Capacity Building

The opposition party urged the Federal Government to review its defence arrangements with the United States to ensure that they prioritise joint operations rather than fully foreign-led strikes. According to the PDP, such collaboration should focus on capacity building, knowledge sharing, and experiential learning for Nigerian security forces.

It argued that sustainable solutions to insecurity can only be achieved if Nigerian forces are actively involved and empowered, rather than relying predominantly on external precision attacks. The party added that joint operations would strengthen local expertise and enhance long-term national security.

The PDP concluded by calling on the Federal Government to improve its communication strategy and ensure that Nigerians are promptly and properly informed about security developments affecting the country.