Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has strongly criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his planned state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as “callous” in the wake of deadly bombings in Maiduguri.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Frank said the coordinated explosions that struck key locations in Maiduguri—including areas near the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, the main market, and the post office—underscore what he called a failing security system. He cited figures indicating that at least 23 people were killed and over 100 injured in the attacks.
“This is not just another attack; it is a national emergency,” Frank said, warning that Nigeria is “bleeding while its leadership is distracted.”
He urged the President to cancel the trip, arguing that leaving the country at such a time would amount to abandoning grieving citizens. According to him, true leadership demands presence and empathy in moments of crisis.
“A President with compassion goes to Maiduguri, not London,” he stated.
Frank also criticised the British government for extending the invitation, accusing it of ignoring Nigeria’s security and economic challenges. He described the gesture as “hypocrisy,” suggesting it sends the wrong signal about the value of Nigerian lives.
“The UK is aware of the worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and concerns about democratic governance, yet it chooses to roll out the red carpet,” he said.
He further questioned the timing of the visit, arguing that it conveys indifference to the suffering of Nigerians and may be interpreted as international endorsement of the current administration despite domestic concerns.
Frank also took aim at the size of the presidential delegation, describing it as excessive and insensitive in a time of national mourning. He listed top government officials expected to accompany the President, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi, among others.
“At a time of grief, such a large entourage reflects detachment from the realities Nigerians are facing,” he said.
The activist also alleged that corruption and mismanagement have weakened Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, claiming that resources meant for security operations are being diverted.
He called on the international community to reassess its engagement with Nigeria, warning that uncritical support could worsen the situation rather than help resolve it.
In contrast, Frank praised former U.S. President Donald Trump for what he described as a firm stance on Nigeria’s security challenges, saying such an approach reflects the kind of support Nigerians expect from global partners.
He concluded by urging the Presidency to prioritise national security and compassion over foreign engagements, stressing that the country is in mourning and requires decisive leadership.