Timi Frank, a former deputy national publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has asked the United States to investigate and possibly sanction Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila over remarks he described as harmful to Nigeria’s democracy.
Politics Nigeria reports that the demand followed a viral video where Gbajabiamila was allegedly heard telling Leke Abejide, a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), “Don’t come to APC. Stay in ADC and scatter them. We like what you’re doing… stay in ADC and win your election… bring Bala Gombe, and we’ll support him. Good luck in court.”
Reacting strongly, Frank described the comment as “reckless” and a threat to democratic stability. He said such a statement, coming from a top government official, raises serious questions about the integrity of the political system under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to him, the remark suggests a calculated move to weaken opposition parties and interfere in their internal affairs. He warned that any hint that political actors can influence court outcomes is dangerous for democracy.
“Your statement, as Chief of Staff, raises serious concerns about the determination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s regime to truncate democracy,” Frank said, adding that “an inference can be made that there is an infringement on the independence of the judiciary.”
He further stressed that comments linking political actors to court outcomes could damage public trust. He said such statements require immediate clarification to avoid what he called “dangerous interpretations.”
Frank also alleged that the comment appears to confirm long-standing suspicions that the presidency may be involved in internal crises affecting opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the ADC.
“When a chief of staff speaks, it reflects the body language of the president. This points to a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition and consolidate power,” he said.
On the issue of accountability, Frank insisted that Gbajabiamila should step down immediately. He argued that such conduct would not be tolerated in more established democracies.
“We call for your resignation with immediate effect. If such a statement were made in the United States, the official involved would have resigned forthwith,” he stated.
He also disclosed plans to formally petition the United States Embassy in Nigeria, urging international attention to what he described as actions capable of undermining democratic institutions in Nigeria.
“Those entrusted with leadership must reflect humility, constitutional awareness, and respect for separation of powers,” Frank added. “Power is transient, but institutions must endure. Any comment that diminishes their independence must be corrected.”
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from Gbajabiamila or the presidency regarding the allegation.
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