Political Leader Timi Frank Denounces President Tinubu Following State Visit During Borno State Security Crisis

President Tinubu faces backlash from Timi Frank for visiting the UK 24 hours after Borno killings. Read the full editorial on the leadership controversy.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 19, 2026, 8:52 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Naija News

The Condemnation of Presidential Diplomacy Amid Domestic Tragedy

A high profile critique of President Bola Tinubu has emerged from Timi Frank, the former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, regarding the timing of a current state visit. According to a statement released on Thursday, Frank described the President's departure for the United Kingdom as both insensitive and embarrassing. The criticism centers on the fact that the diplomatic mission proceeded less than 24 hours after a series of deadly attacks claimed lives in Maiduguri, Borno State. Frank argues that the decision to travel during a period of national mourning suggests a disconnect between the presidency and the immediate suffering of the Nigerian populace.

The Contrast of Windsor Ceremonies and Borno Mourning

While President Tinubu and First Lady Remi Tinubu were being hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle, the domestic atmosphere in Nigeria remained somber. Frank pointed out that while the global community expressed concern over the recent violence, the Nigerian leadership chose to engage in high level celebrations and ceremonial drinking. According to Frank, the visual of top security officials and ministers participating in a state visit while citizens are dying creates a narrative of neglect. He asserted that these actions indicate the administration does not sufficiently value the lives of Nigerians, particularly those residing in the northern regions most affected by insecurity.

Allegations of International Complicity in National Decline

The critique extended beyond the Nigerian presidency to include the host nation, with Frank accusing the United Kingdom government of being complicit in Nigeria's ongoing challenges. He argued that by providing a platform for celebration during a crisis, the UK is legitimizing a leader whose record remains under heavy scrutiny. According to Frank, the visit does not represent the progress of the nation but rather highlights its perceived decline. He suggested that the international community should be more discerning about the timing of such state functions when the invited leader's home country is actively dealing with mass casualties and security failures.