APC Leaders Invited Bandits Ravaging Nigeria — Adeniyi

Former Editor-in-Chief of the defunct Daily Times and Nigerian Tribune, Tola Adeniyi, has alleged that leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) were involved in the emergence of armed bandit groups operating across parts of Nigeria.

Adeniyi made the remarks during an interview on the State Affairs podcast hosted by Edmund Obilo, where he strongly criticised Nigeria’s political leadership and its handling of insecurity.

He claimed that some political actors had previously made statements suggesting that bandit groups were “invited” into the country for political purposes during past electoral struggles.

According to him, such alleged actions contributed to the worsening security situation Nigeria is currently facing, particularly in the North-West and North-East regions.

Adeniyi further alleged that armed groups were later legitimised or excused by some political figures under the guise of reconciliation and reintegration efforts.

He also referenced past national tragedies and insurgency incidents, linking them to broader claims about state complicity in insecurity, though he did not provide verifiable evidence for the assertions.

The journalist’s comments have sparked renewed debate on Nigeria’s security crisis, with analysts warning that such claims, if unsubstantiated, could deepen political tensions.

Security experts continue to emphasise that Nigeria’s banditry and insurgency challenges are driven by multiple factors, including poverty, weak border control, arms proliferation, and regional instability.

Authorities have consistently maintained that security agencies are working to dismantle criminal networks across the country and restore peace to affected communities.

As of press time, the APC has not issued an official response to Adeniyi’s allegations.