…PDP, ADC Slam Tinubu on Global Terror Index
The 2026 Global Terrorism Index (GTI), released on March 19, 2026 by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP), has revealed that Nigeria experienced the largest year-on-year increase in terrorism-related deaths globally. This surge has propelled the country to fourth place on the index, trailing only Pakistan, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
Nigeria’s ascent in the rankings comes amid a protracted security crisis characterised by an escalation in terrorism, banditry, and high-profile kidnappings. The violence has taken a heavy toll on the nation’s security apparatus, with several senior military officers among those killed in recent operations.
Pakistan Tops Index Amidst Shifting Global Trends
While Nigeria saw a decline in its security situation, the report indicated a broader global trend of improvement. Total deaths from terrorism fell by approximately 28% to 5,582—the lowest level recorded since 2007. Despite this overall reduction, Pakistan was ranked as the country most impacted by terrorism for the first time, followed by the Sahelian nations of Burkina Faso and Niger.
Sub-Saharan Africa remains the global epicentre of terrorism, hosting six of the ten most affected nations. In contrast, Western nations experienced a paradoxical trend; while global incidents decreased, fatalities in the West rose by a sharp 280%. This spike was primarily driven by political terrorism, antisemitism, and Islamophobia.
Decentralised Radicalisation and the Rise of Lone-Wolf Attacks
The IEP report identifies a significant shift in the mechanics of radicalisation, noting that the process is becoming faster, more decentralised, and increasingly tethered to online environments. Lone-wolf attacks, particularly involving radicalised youth, have emerged as a primary concern for global security agencies.
The Islamic State (IS) and its regional affiliates maintained their status as the world’s deadliest terrorist organisation in 2025. The group was reportedly responsible for nearly 17% of all recorded attacks globally, continuing to pose a significant threat despite territorial losses in previous years.
Political Opposition Laments “Trillion-Naira Insecurity Economy”
Reacting to the report, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), led by Tanimu Turaki, described the findings as a damning indictment of the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.
The party noted that the report aligns with the “daily lived reality” of citizens who feel more insecure now than at any other point in the Fourth Republic.
The PDP further alleged that under President Bola Tinubu’s watch, insecurity has evolved into a “lucrative trillion-naira economy.” The opposition criticised the government for what it termed “reactive responses” and called for a “whole-of-society” approach to restore order.
Calls for Immediate “Negative Peace” Strategies
The opposition urged the presidency and the security hierarchy to move beyond post-attack communications and evolve policies capable of delivering “negative peace”—defined as the immediate cessation of attacks. This, they argued, must serve as the foundation for “positive peace,” or voluntary harmonious coexistence.
Reminding the administration that the protection of lives and property remains the primary duty of the state, the PDP appealed to the President to deploy his political expertise to stem the tide of violence. “Nigerians are tired of being killed for no reason,” the party stated.
