Activist Critiques Tinubu Amid Ongoing Violence
Human rights advocate Comrade Timi Frank has delivered a sharp critique of President Bola Tinubu, labeling his recent state visits to the UK as “insensitive” and “embarrassing.” This condemnation comes just one day after a deadly attack in Maiduguri that left many Nigerians grieving.
Sharing his thoughts on social media platform X, Frank accused both the Nigerian and British governments of neglecting the suffering of Nigerian citizens while the President was engaged in ceremonial activities abroad. He expressed dismay over Tinubu’s ability to proceed with such visits less than 24 hours after the tragic events.
“I wonder how President Tinubu was able to move on less than 24 hours after people were killed,” Frank remarked. “He and his team decided to make a state visit while the world is expressing concern over the tragedy in Nigeria, where more and more lives are being lost.”
Frank referred to the ongoing situation as a national embarrassment and emphasized that while government officials celebrated abroad, the country was still mourning. He criticized Tinubu for appearing detached from the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians, particularly those plagued by insecurity in the northern regions.
Describing the President’s behavior as callous, he expressed alarm that such actions signal a disregard for the safety and wellbeing of Nigerian citizens. “He is effectively leaving people to their fate,” Frank noted, further criticizing the British government for its insensitivity in allowing the visit to proceed amidst Nigeria’s security crises.
Highlighting the issuance of hundreds of visas to the Nigerian delegation, Frank underscored his concerns over the apparent lack of urgency regarding Nigeria’s dire situation. He remarked, “It is unfortunate that the UK reportedly issued around 600 visas for this visit. That decision reflects utter indifference to the plight of Nigerians.” He expressed disappointment that King Charles III did not take a stand on Nigeria’s governance and security issues during the visit.
Frank compared the current international response to Nigeria’s challenges with that of the United States under former President Donald Trump, suggesting that a stronger stance would have been taken on matters of corruption and political instability. He warned that the visit might be misinterpreted as an endorsement of Nigeria’s governance failures, risking the legitimization of ineffective leadership.
Moreover, Frank raised concerns regarding the composition of the presidential delegation, particularly criticizing the absence of key security officials from Nigeria during this critical time. “It is unacceptable that key security officials have left the country just to attend a ceremony abroad while our citizens are being killed,” he stated.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, Frank urged citizens to remain vigilant. He emphasized the need to protect the democratic process and ensure credible voting. “Nigerians must be prepared to ensure that this government is not reinstated. They must protect their votes and demand credible elections,” he urged.
The activist also voiced frustration over the perceived apathy of the international community towards Nigeria’s deteriorating security climate. “Are they unaware of the bombings, killings, and corruption, or have they chosen to ignore it?” he questioned, highlighting the urgent need for global awareness and response to Nigeria’s plight.
Condemning the extravagant celebrations at Windsor Castle during a period of mourning in Nigeria, Frank insisted that the British government’s actions reflected an unsettling alignment with Nigeria’s current leadership. He warned, “While Nigerians are dying, future generations will be judged for the lack of empathy on the part of all involved.” As of now, the presidential office has yet to respond to these criticisms.
