Laolu Akande,Former Presidential Aide,has criticised Bola Tinubu for failing to demonstrate sufficient empathy following the recent wave of terrorist attacks in Nigeria’s North-East, despite ordering the relocation of military high command to Borno State.
Akande said while the President’s directive to move top military leadership closer to the theatre of operations was a commendable strategic step, it fell short of addressing the emotional and psychological needs of affected communities grappling with renewed violence. According to him, moments of national tragedy require not only decisive action but also visible compassion from leadership to reassure citizens and foster unity.
The criticism comes in the wake of intensified attacks in the North-East region, where insurgent activities have resurged, leading to loss of lives, displacement of residents, and heightened insecurity. Communities in Borno and surrounding areas have continued to bear the brunt of these assaults, raising concerns about the effectiveness of ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
Akande argued that beyond military deployments and tactical responses, leadership must communicate directly with victims and the wider public in ways that convey solidarity and understanding. He noted that symbolic gestures such as visiting affected areas, addressing grieving families, or issuing heartfelt national statements play a critical role in crisis management and public confidence.
He further stressed that the absence of a strong empathetic response risks deepening public frustration, especially in regions that have endured years of insurgency. For many residents, he said, government presence is often measured not just by security interventions but also by how leaders acknowledge their suffering.
The former aide also pointed out that effective governance during crises requires a balance between operational decisions and emotional intelligence.
While relocating military commanders to Borno may improve coordination and response times, he maintained that it does little to directly comfort victims or signal shared grief at the highest level of government.
Recent attacks in the North-East have once again drawn national attention to the persistent threat posed by insurgent groups, despite years of military campaigns. Security analysts have warned that without sustained efforts combining intelligence, community engagement, and humanitarian support, gains made in previous operations could be eroded.
Akande’s remarks add to a growing conversation about leadership style and crisis communication in Nigeria, particularly in times of insecurity. Observers say public expectations of leadership have evolved, with citizens increasingly demanding transparency, responsiveness, and emotional connection from those in power.
As the Federal Government intensifies its security response, the situation in Borno State remains a critical test of both military strategy and political leadership.
For many Nigerians, the coming days will reveal whether actions on the ground will be matched by the kind of empathetic leadership that fosters trust and national cohesion in the face of adversity.
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