March 3, 2026
News | SUNTV Global Channel
The 2015 presidential candidate of the National Conscience Party (NCP), Martin Onovo, has accused Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of sponsoring insecurity and terrorism across the country.
In a statement made available to SUNTV Global Channel on Tuesday, Onovo alleged that it would be “naïve” to expect the APC-led federal government to decisively confront terrorist networks that he claims are linked to individuals within the party.
Onovo argued that the government’s handling of insecurity contrasts sharply with its swift diplomatic and security response to a recent coup plot in the Republic of Benin, while, according to him, terrorist activities have persisted within Nigeria for over 50 months without decisive resolution.
Citing remarks previously attributed to former President Muhammadu Buhari, Onovo referenced a controversial statement that “an attack against Boko Haram is an attack against the North.” He also pointed to comments made by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who had advocated for de-radicalisation and rehabilitation of repentant members of Boko Haram as part of efforts to end prolonged violence.
Onovo further referenced past statements by retired General Theophilus Danjuma, who had alleged that elements within the armed forces were colluding with armed bandits. He also mentioned remarks credited to retired Navy Commodore Kunle Olawunmi, a former military attaché to France and ex-Commandant of the Defence Intelligence College, suggesting that authorities were aware of key actors behind insurgent activities.
The former presidential candidate additionally cited an alleged conviction by a Dubai court said to have linked terror financing to Nigerian political figures, as well as claims involving Alhaji Kawu Baraje, described as a founding member of the APC, who was reported to have made controversial statements regarding the 2015 elections.
Onovo concluded by stating that, in his view, the accumulation of these incidents and statements raises serious questions about the ruling party’s role in Nigeria’s prolonged security crisis.
As of the time of filing this report, the APC has not issued an official response to the allegations.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as reactions emerge from the presidency and relevant authorities.
