Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has warned African leaders against signing new agreements with France, claiming such partnerships would not benefit ordinary citizens but rather deepen foreign control over the continent's economies and politics.
Frank Criticizes France-Africa Summit
Frank made the remarks in response to discussions at the 'Africa Forward: Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth Summit' held in Nairobi, Kenya. The event was attended by French President Emmanuel Macron and several African leaders, including Nigerian President Bola Tinubu.
The political activist alleged that France is attempting to rebuild its influence in Africa after facing resistance from some Francophone countries in recent years. He argued that agreements reached at the summit would primarily serve political leaders rather than ordinary Africans, describing the arrangements as dangerous and against the continent's interests.
'Any agreement signed with France will only benefit the leaders themselves and not the people. Africans must reject such deals because they are like death warrants for the continent,' Frank said.
Frank pointed to Burkina Faso and Mali as examples of countries that have openly challenged French influence. He argued that larger African nations should also resist what he called attempts at recolonization.
Allegations of Economic Exploitation
Frank accused France of maintaining economic systems that kept African countries dependent for decades. According to him, many former colonies remained tied to financial arrangements controlled by Paris.
'All these years France controlled the resources and financial systems of many African countries. They kept African money and still loaned the same money back to them. That system only promoted poverty and dependency,' he alleged.
The former APC spokesman also accused France of supporting African leaders who manipulate constitutions to remain in office. He claimed such alliances had weakened democratic institutions across the continent.
Call for Youth Resistance
Frank urged African citizens to reject leaders who enter into agreements that compromise national sovereignty and public welfare.
'Africans should reject leaders who mortgage the future of their countries for selfish gains. The continent deserves partnerships that promote development, security, and prosperity for the people,' he said.
He also called on young Africans to organize peaceful protests against any agreement they believe threatens the continent's independence.
'The youth must wake up and reject this new takeover agenda. The era where France dictates the future of Africa is gone,' he stated.
Alternative Partnerships Proposed
Frank added that African nations should instead strengthen ties with the United States and Israel, which he described as more beneficial partners in areas such as technology, agriculture, trade, and security cooperation.
Meanwhile, at the Franco-African summit in Kenya, President Macron stepped up to the podium while another speaker was addressing the audience. He intervened to ask participants to reduce the noise and show attentiveness, ensuring the event could continue smoothly.
