The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s absence at the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremonies, arguing that the physical presence of the Commander-in-Chief is a non-negotiable symbol of solidarity with the nation’s military.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party maintained that the annual January 15th commemoration should go beyond “symbolic gestures and ceremonial activities.”
The ADC expressed deep concern that at a time when Nigerian soldiers are battling insurgency, banditry, and violent crime across multiple fronts, the President was unavailable for such a solemn national moment.
“It is deeply troubling that the President of the Federal Republic is absent and unavailable on a day meant to symbolize solidarity with our armed forces and the families who continue to bear the cost of Nigeria’s security failures,” the statement read.
The party further asserted that leadership in a time of crisis “cannot be outsourced, postponed, or treated as ceremonial,” adding that the President’s presence is a “statement of respect, responsibility, and shared sacrifice.”
“Remembrance must go beyond wreaths and words. It must be reflected in leadership that shows up, takes responsibility, and places the lives of Nigerians above image management, foreign trips, or political convenience,” the ADC added.
**Tinubu Pays Tribute via Statement**
Despite his absence from the physical wreath-laying ceremonies, President Bola Tinubu released a statement on Thursday paying tribute to the fallen heroes and serving members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
In the message, the President described January 15 as a vital opportunity to honor those who sacrificed everything for the country’s peace.
“Their names might not always be remembered, but their courage sustains our freedom and peace. A nation that forgets its fallen heroes loses its direction; Nigeria, however, remembers,” the President stated.
Addressing the families of the deceased, the President acknowledged that “no words can replace the sacrifices of your loved ones,” while also commending serving personnel for their discipline and professionalism in protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty.
The President concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the welfare and dignity of the Armed Forces, stating, “As President and Commander-in-Chief, I reaffirm my commitment to the welfare and dignity of our Armed Forces. A secure Nigeria stands behind those who defend it.”
Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually on January 15 to commemorate the end of the Nigerian Civil War and to honor military personnel who lost their lives in service to the nation and in various global peacekeeping operations.
While the Presidency maintains its commitment to the military through policy and official tributes, the ADC insists that “genuine political will” must be demonstrated through visible, present leadership during moments of national reflection.
