Nigeria’s main opposition party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has sharply criticised the federal government for failing to comment on the unfolding crisis in Venezuela, calling the silence “embarrassing” and harmful to the country’s international reputation. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, expressed concern that more than 48 hours after the United States announced the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Nigeria had not issued any official statement on the matter. ADC said this inaction contrasts with several West African countries that have taken clear positions on the situation, and it suggests Nigeria is no longer a strong voice in international affairs.
The ADC described the events in Venezuela as a defining moment in global politics that has wide implications beyond Latin America. Abdullahi said Nigeria’s failure to respond was unacceptable for a nation that once took firm stands on major international issues, and called on the government to articulate a clear position – whether in support, opposition, or neutrality on the developments. The party argued that saying nothing at all undermines Nigeria’s role as a leader in the region and diminishes its moral authority on the global stage.
In its statement, the ADC also connected the situation in Venezuela to broader questions about legitimacy and democratic principles, noting that the controversial 2024 Venezuelan election had been condemned by many international observers as flawed and lacking credibility. The party suggested that the strong public reaction within Venezuela reflected deeper issues with the Maduro government’s mandate and that other democratic nations, including Nigeria, should speak out on matters of governance and people’s rights. ADC warned that remaining silent sends the wrong message about Nigeria’s commitment to democracy and accountability around the world.
Overall, the criticism highlights growing political tensions at home over Nigeria’s foreign policy approach and its place in global debates. By urging the Tinubu administration to break its silence, the ADC aims to push the government to reaffirm Nigeria’s voice on key international issues and protect its standing as Africa’s most populous democracy.
