Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his planned visit to the United Kingdom, describing the move as ill-timed following the deadly bombings in Maiduguri.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Frank said the attacks—which reportedly targeted areas around the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, the main market, and the post office—highlight deepening security concerns in the country. He noted that dozens of lives were lost while many others sustained injuries, calling the incident a stark reminder of Nigeria’s fragile security situation.
According to him, the timing of the President’s trip raises serious questions about priorities at a moment when citizens are grappling with grief and uncertainty.
“This is a critical moment that demands leadership and presence,” Frank said, urging the President to reconsider the visit and focus attention on the situation in Borno State.
He also directed criticism at the British government, arguing that extending an invitation under such circumstances reflects a lack of sensitivity to Nigeria’s current challenges, including insecurity and economic strain.
Frank further questioned the size of the presidential delegation, describing it as excessive in light of the prevailing national mood. He listed several top government officials expected to accompany the President, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi, among others.
Beyond the trip, he raised concerns about the broader handling of Nigeria’s security situation, alleging that systemic issues, including mismanagement, have continued to undermine efforts to tackle terrorism.
He called on the international community to adopt a more thoughtful approach in its engagement with Nigeria, warning that symbolic gestures must not overshadow the urgency of addressing the country’s internal challenges.
Frank, however, commended former U.S. President Donald Trump for what he described as a firm and direct posture on security matters, contrasting it with what he sees as a more passive stance by other global actors.
He concluded by urging the Federal Government to prioritise national security and demonstrate empathy, noting that moments of crisis require visible leadership and decisive action.
Frank Knocks Tinubu’s UK Trip, Raises Alarm Over Maiduguri Attacks
