Human rights activist, Raphael Adebayo, has dared Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to President Tinubu on information and strategy, to visit Plateau or Zamfara State for two weeks after the latter’s commentary on a weekly political podcast. 

While appearing on the program "Mic on Podcast" anchored by Nigerian Journalist, Seun Okinbaloye, Mr. Onanuga claimed that banditry, kidnapping, and Nigeria’s widespread security crises are "exaggerated" incidents that only happen "in very small corners of Nigeria."

Adebayo described Onanuga’s statements as "insensitive, irresponsible commentary that should disturb every ordinary Nigerian, especially the constant victims of terrorist attacks, and help them understand how the government views the enormous danger posed by the terrorists attacking and threatening their lives, communities, and properties."

The activist further noted that Onanuga could not possibly understand "the trepidation of residents of Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas, and several other parts of Plateau State under constant attacks. Nor can he possibly ken the anxiety of Nigerians in Tsafe, Bungudu, and other frequently raided local government areas in Zamfara by ethno-religious terrorists." He added that Onanuga and other government officials were living in ivory towers and isolated from the daily realities of ordinary Nigerians. 

Adebayo then challenged Onanuga to visit the affected local government areas in Plateau or Zamfara State and live as an ordinary citizen without police or military protection for two weeks. He said this was the only way Onanuga would start to understand the magnitude of Nigeria’s security problems.

Read full statement here.