Timi Frank Condemns President Tinubu's UK State Visit as Insensitive
In a scathing critique, former APC deputy national publicity secretary Timi Frank has lambasted both the Nigerian and United Kingdom governments over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's ongoing state visit to the United Kingdom. Frank described the trip as "insensitive" and "an embarrassment," coming barely 24 hours after reported deadly attacks in Maiduguri, which have left citizens grieving.
Frank Accuses UK of Complicity in Nigeria's Challenges
In a strongly worded statement, Frank accused the UK of being "complicit" in Nigeria's ongoing struggles, arguing that the timing of the visit demonstrates a profound lack of empathy for the nation's mourning populace. "I wonder how President Tinubu could travel barely 24 hours after people were killed," Frank said. "At a time when the whole world is expressing concern over the tragedy in Nigeria, he and his delegation chose to embark on a state visit—celebrating while Nigerians are dying."
He characterized the trip as a source of "huge disgrace and embarrassment," highlighting that many Nigerians are still mourning victims of violence while government officials participate in ceremonial engagements abroad. According to Frank, the President's actions "clearly show a lack of value for Nigerians, particularly those in the North."
Criticism Extends to UK Government and Delegation Composition
Frank also directed sharp criticism at the UK government, accusing it of indifference by proceeding with the visit and reportedly granting visas to a large number of Nigerian delegation members. "It is a shame that such a large number of visas were issued for this visit at a time like this. It reflects a troubling lack of concern for the situation in Nigeria," he stated.
He expressed disappointment that King Charles III did not publicly address issues of insecurity and governance challenges in Nigeria during the visit. "We expected questions around insecurity, killings and governance, but that has not happened," Frank noted. "Receiving the President under these circumstances sends the wrong signal."
Comparisons to US and Warnings for 2027 Elections
Drawing comparisons with the United States, Frank argued that former President Donald Trump would have adopted a more confrontational stance on matters such as insecurity, corruption, and political instability. He warned that the visit risks being interpreted as an international endorsement of governance failures in Nigeria. "What is being celebrated is not Nigeria's progress, but its decline," he asserted. "This engagement does not serve the interest of Nigerians but rather legitimises leadership that many have questioned."
Frank further criticized the composition of the delegation, particularly the inclusion of top security officials, describing their absence from the country during a critical period as a dereliction of duty. "It is unacceptable that key security figures would leave the country while citizens face security threats, simply to attend ceremonial events abroad," he emphasized.
Looking ahead, Frank urged Nigerians to remain vigilant in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections, calling on citizens to safeguard the electoral process and demand credible polls to ensure accountability and transparency in governance.
