Political activist and former APC spokesperson, Timi Frank, has delivered a scathing rebuke of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing state visit to the United Kingdom, describing the trip as “ill-timed, insensitive, and damaging” in the wake of deadly attacks in Maiduguri.
In a statement released Thursday, Frank accused both the Nigerian and UK governments of showing disregard for Nigerian lives, arguing that the visit—coming barely 24 hours after reports of mass casualties—projects a troubling lack of empathy.
“At a moment of national grief, leadership should be present and responsive—not absent and celebratory,” he said. “The decision to proceed with this visit sends a painful message to Nigerians mourning their loved ones.”
Frank said the optics of the visit have further deepened public frustration, noting that while families grapple with loss, government officials are engaged in high-profile engagements abroad.
“This is not just a diplomatic trip—it has become a symbol of disconnect between leadership and the people,” he stated.
Turning his criticism toward the UK, Frank alleged that proceeding with the visit under such circumstances reflects indifference to Nigeria’s security challenges.
“The willingness to host and roll out full state honours at this time raises serious moral questions,” he said, adding that reports of numerous visas issued to members of the delegation reinforce concerns about 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, in this context, can be interpreted as complicity,” Frank argued.
Drawing comparisons with Donald Trump, he suggested that other global leaders might have taken a more direct stance on governance and security concerns.
Frank further criticised the inclusion of top security officials in the delegation, warning that their absence from Nigeria during a critical period raises questions about priorities and responsibility.
“At a time when decisive action is needed at home, key officials are engaged in ceremonial functions abroad. That is difficult to justify,” he said.
Referencing the royal reception at Windsor Castle, Frank described the display as “deeply out of touch” with the mood back home.
“The contrast between the pageantry in Windsor and the pain in Maiduguri is stark and unsettling,” he noted.
He warned that such engagements risk being seen as international validation of governance failures, rather than opportunities for meaningful dialogue.
“What should have been a moment for sober reflection has instead become a spectacle,” he said.
Looking ahead, Frank called on Nigerians to remain politically alert as the 2027 general elections approach, urging citizens to prioritise accountability and electoral integrity.
“The responsibility ultimately lies with Nigerians to demand better leadership and defend the democratic process,” he said.
He concluded with a cautionary note to both domestic and international actors.
“In times of crisis, actions matter more than words. History will remember who stood with the people—and who looked away,” Frank said.
Timi Frank Slams UK, Labels Visit ‘Insensitive’ to Nigerian Tragedy
