ABUJA, Nigeria — Timi Frank, a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has alleged that Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, is scheming to declare a state of emergency and suspend the ongoing Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.
The allegations, made public in a statement released to journalists on Saturday, August 5, 2023, come after a coup in neighboring Niger Republic.
Frank claimed that President Tinubu is seeking the Senate’s approval for Nigeria to intervene militarily in Niger, using the situation as a pretext to declare a state of emergency within Nigeria.
“It is clear to discerning minds that Tinubu wants to find an alibi to declare war in Niger and under that declare a state of emergency in Nigeria which will invariably lead to suspension of the ongoing sitting of the Presidential Election tribunal,” Frank said.
He further warned the President against leading Nigeria into a conflict with Niger, cautioning that such a move would bring long-term economic, political, and social devastation to an already fragile nation.
“He is not out to restore democracy in Niger Republic. He is out to legitimize and gain recognition for his government from western allies. Let Nigeriens solve their problems. Nigeria has enough challenges of its own,” he declared.
The statement has ignited a firestorm of debate and controversy within political circles, with analysts and opposition members weighing in on the implications of the allegations.
Some view Frank’s claims as a mere political tactic aimed at discrediting the Tinubu administration, while others express concern over the potential truth behind the allegations.
The government has not yet issued an official response to the allegations, leaving many Nigerians in suspense over the President’s intentions and the unfolding situation in Niger.
The coup in Niger and the subsequent political maneuvering in Nigeria highlight the complex interplay of regional politics, domestic concerns, and international interests.
The situation continues to unfold, and the world watches with keen interest as events take shape in a region marked by political instability and shifting alliances.
As the allegations linger, the call for transparency, dialogue, and careful handling of both domestic and international matters grows louder.
The coming days are likely to reveal more about the President’s intentions and the true nature of Nigeria’s involvement in the Niger crisis, as the nation grapples with political uncertainty and the challenges of governance.
