A resurfaced social media post from 2014 by then-opposition leader Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which declared “The festering Boko Haram attacks on the North East and massacre of innocent citizens is concrete proof that Nigeria has no government,” has sparked renewed debate and critical examination of the current administration’s fight against insurgency. The statement, made nearly a decade ago, puts a spotlight on the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria, particularly in the North East.

The 2014 Context: A Scathing Critique
On September 9, 2014, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, then a prominent figure in the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), took to social media to heavily criticize the Goodluck Jonathan administration’s handling of the Boko Haram crisis. At the time, the insurgency was raging, with widespread attacks, abductions, and displacement plaguing the North East region. Tinubu’s strong words reflected the frustration and despair felt by many Nigerians regarding the government’s perceived inaction and ineffectiveness against the terror group.

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The statement served as a powerful indictment, framing the escalating violence as evidence of a fundamental failure of governance. It resonated deeply with a populace yearning for security and a decisive response to the burgeoning threat.

2025: A Complex Reality Under Tinubu’s Leadership
Fast forward to June 2025, and Bola Ahmed Tinubu now occupies the highest office in the land, having been ‘elected’ President of Nigeria. His administration has consistently asserted progress in the fight against Boko Haram and other militant groups. Official reports often highlight successes in degrading terrorist capabilities, reclaiming territory, and encouraging surrenders.

However, the reality on the ground remains complex. Recent attacks in parts of the North East, as highlighted in public discourse, suggest that while tactical gains may have been achieved, the remnants of Boko Haram and its splinter factions, like ISWAP, remain active and capable of launching deadly assaults. These incidents serve as a stark reminder that the insurgency is far from over, and the security situation continues to be a major concern for many Nigerians.

Public Discourse and Political Implications
The re-emergence of Tinubu’s 2014 statement has fueled discussions across social media platforms and in traditional media outlets. Critics are using it to question the extent of the progress claimed by the current government, drawing parallels between the past and present security landscape. They argue that despite a change in leadership, the fundamental challenges of insecurity persist, prompting calls for more effective strategies and greater accountability.

Conversely, supporters of the administration emphasize the significant efforts made and the complex nature of counter-insurgency operations. They point to improved military capabilities, regional collaborations, and non-kinetic approaches as evidence of a different approach compared to the past.

Beyond Boko Haram: The Broader Security Landscape
It’s crucial to note that Nigeria’s security challenges have diversified and intensified beyond Boko Haram since 2014. The nation now grapples with widespread banditry, kidnapping-for-ransom, farmer-herder clashes, and separatist agitations in various regions. This multifaceted security crisis presents an immense challenge for the Tinubu administration, demanding a comprehensive and sustained approach.

The 2014 statement by then-opposition leader Tinubu serves as a powerful historical marker, illustrating the enduring nature of Nigeria’s security woes. As 2025 unfolds, the government faces the ongoing task of not only combating the remnants of Boko Haram but also addressing the broader spectrum of insecurity that continues to impact the lives of millions of Nigerians. The coming months will be critical in demonstrating the effectiveness of current strategies and ultimately, in delivering the peace and security that the nation desperately craves.