Political activist and former APC spokesperson, Timi Frank, has strongly criticised the United Kingdom for hosting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu amid what he described as a period of national mourning following deadly attacks in Maiduguri.
In a statement issued Thursday, Frank described Tinubu’s ongoing state visit as “ill-timed, insensitive, and damaging,” arguing that the trip—coming barely 24 hours after reports of mass casualties—reflects a troubling disconnect from the realities on the ground in Nigeria.
“At a moment of national grief, leadership should be present and responsive—not absent and celebratory,” he said. “Proceeding with this visit sends a painful message to Nigerians mourning their loved ones.”
Frank said the optics of the visit have heightened public anger, noting that while victims’ families struggle with loss, senior government officials are engaged in high-profile engagements abroad.
“This is no longer just a diplomatic engagement—it has become a symbol of the widening gap between the government and the people,” he stated.
Directing his criticism at the UK, Frank accused British authorities of demonstrating indifference to Nigeria’s security challenges by going ahead with the visit.
“The decision to host and roll out full state honours under these circumstances raises serious moral questions,” he said, adding that reports of numerous visas issued to members of the Nigerian delegation point to misplaced priorities.
He also expressed disappointment that Charles III has not publicly addressed Nigeria’s worsening insecurity during the visit.
“Moments like this demand candour and accountability. Silence can easily be interpreted as complicity,” Frank argued.
Drawing comparisons with Donald Trump, he suggested that stronger scrutiny might have been applied in other global settings, particularly on issues of insecurity and governance.
Frank further faulted the presence of top security officials in the delegation, warning that their absence from Nigeria at a critical time raises serious concerns.
“When the country requires decisive leadership, key officials should not be engaged in ceremonial functions abroad,” he said.
Referring to the reception at Windsor Castle, he described the pageantry as out of touch with the national mood.
“The contrast between the grandeur in Windsor and the grief in Maiduguri is stark,” he noted.
Frank warned that such international engagements risk being perceived as endorsements of governance failures rather than opportunities for meaningful engagement.
“What should have been a moment for sober reflection has instead turned into a spectacle,” he said.
Looking ahead, he urged Nigerians to remain vigilant ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing the need for accountability and credible electoral processes.
“The responsibility ultimately lies with Nigerians to demand better leadership and defend their democracy,” he said.
Frank concluded with a caution to both local and international actors, warning that history will judge their actions.
“In times like this, actions matter more than words. History will remember who stood with the people—and who looked away,” he said.