308 lives saved: When humanity must rise above politics — by Segun Showunmi

The rescue of 308 human beings by the Nigerian Armed Forces should have been one of those rare moments that unite a nation. It should have been an occasion for gratitude, reflection, and renewed confidence in the capacity of our security institutions to protect lives. Instead, some have chosen silence, while others appear incapable of acknowledging any achievement that does not align with their political preferences.

This is unfortunate.

There comes a point where partisanship ceases to be healthy democratic competition and becomes a moral failing. When innocent men, women, and children are rescued from captivity and some who occupy positions of religious, social, or political influence cannot find it within themselves to celebrate, it reveals a troubling condition of the heart. The rescue of human beings should never be subjected to political calculations.

The Christian faith teaches compassion, gratitude, and the celebration of every life preserved. Indeed, every major moral tradition known to humanity places the sanctity of human life above political interests. Therefore, when individuals who seek leadership positions or claim spiritual authority cannot rejoice at the liberation of fellow citizens, Nigerians are entitled to question whether ambition has overwhelmed conscience.

A nation must be careful about the voices it elevates. Leadership is not merely about criticizing government; it is also about recognizing progress when it occurs. It is about possessing sufficient balance and integrity to applaud what is right while challenging what is wrong. Those who are incapable of this balance may not be suited for the responsibilities they seek.

The truth is that Nigeria has endured extraordinarily difficult security challenges over the years. There was a period when many communities felt abandoned, when criminal groups operated with alarming confidence, and when international partners often viewed our situation with skepticism and resignation. The scars of those years remain visible across the country.

Yet, despite the magnitude of the challenge, progress is being made.

The rescue of 308 persons did not happen by accident. It is the product of intelligence gathering, operational planning, sacrifice, courage, and sustained political commitment. It is the result of men and women in uniform placing themselves in harm’s way so that others may live in safety.

For this, the Nigerian Armed Forces and all supporting security agencies deserve the gratitude of the nation. Their service is often rendered under harsh conditions and with little recognition. Every successful operation represents countless hours of dedication and personal sacrifice.

It is equally appropriate to acknowledge the leadership role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in confronting one of the most difficult inheritances facing the nation. Security challenges that developed over many years cannot disappear overnight, but the direction of travel matters. The determination to support the armed forces, strengthen security coordination, and pursue the restoration of national stability deserves recognition.

This is not a call for blind praise. No government is beyond criticism, and much work remains to be done. Nigerians continue to demand greater security, faster results, and lasting peace. Those expectations are legitimate. However, fairness requires that successes be acknowledged just as failures are scrutinized.

The rescue of 308 citizens is a success.

It is a victory for the rescued families. It is a victory for the Armed Forces. It is a victory for Nigeria.

May we never become so blinded by politics that we lose the capacity to celebrate the preservation of human life. May we never become so consumed by ambition that we cannot acknowledge progress when it occurs. And may Nigeria continue on the difficult but necessary path toward peace, security, and national renewal.

Congratulations to our Armed Forces. Congratulations to the rescued citizens and their families. May Nigeria succeed.

–Showunmi founder of
The Alternative Movement is a PDP chieftain