Timi Frank has criticised both the Nigerian and United Kingdom governments over Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as “insensitive” and “an embarrassment” in the aftermath of deadly attacks in Maiduguri.

In a strongly worded statement, the former APC deputy national publicity secretary accused the UK of being “complicit” in Nigeria’s challenges, arguing that the timing of the visit—barely 24 hours after reported killings—showed a lack of empathy for grieving citizens.

“I wonder how President Tinubu could travel barely 24 hours after people were killed,” Frank said. “At a time when the whole world is expressing concern over the tragedy in Nigeria, he and his delegation chose to embark on a state visit—celebrating while Nigerians are dying.”

He described the trip as a source of “huge disgrace and embarrassment,” noting that many citizens were still mourning victims of violence while government officials attended ceremonial engagements abroad.

According to him, the President’s actions “clearly show a lack of value for Nigerians, particularly those in the North.”

“This is not just insensitivity; it suggests a failure of leadership and responsibility,” Frank added.
Frank also directed criticism at the UK government, accusing it of indifference by proceeding with the visit and reportedly granting visas to members of the Nigerian delegation.

“It is a shame that such a large number of visas were issued for this visit at a time like this. It reflects a troubling lack of concern for the situation in Nigeria,” he said.

He further expressed disappointment that Charles III had not publicly raised concerns about insecurity and governance challenges in Nigeria during the visit.

“We expected questions around insecurity, killings and governance, but that has not happened,” he said. “Receiving the President under these circumstances sends the wrong signal.”

Drawing comparisons with the United States, Frank argued that Donald Trump would have taken a more confrontational approach on issues such as insecurity, corruption and political instability.

He warned that the visit risked being interpreted as international endorsement of governance failures in Nigeria.
“What is being celebrated is not Nigeria’s progress, but its decline,” he said. “This engagement does not serve the interest of Nigerians but rather legitimises leadership that many have questioned.”

Frank also criticised the composition of the delegation, particularly the inclusion of top security officials, describing their absence from the country at a critical time as a dereliction of duty.

“It is unacceptable that key security figures would leave the country while citizens face security threats, simply to attend ceremonial events abroad,” he said.

Looking ahead, he urged Nigerians to remain vigilant ahead of the 2027 general elections, calling on citizens to safeguard the electoral process and demand credible polls.