ABUJA, Nigeria – The Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, is being urged to dismiss Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu from his chairmanship position, citing allegations of illegitimacy in his role as Nigeria’s president.
The call was made by the former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, in a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday, October 10, 2023.
Frank’s concern stems from claims that President Tinubu submitted a forged Chicago State University (CSU) certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) when contesting the 2023 Presidential election. He noted, “If ECOWAS must remain relevant and retain its credibility and respect among member states, it must act fast to protect its integrity.”
The outspoken APC figure also urged past and current presidents of ECOWAS member states to advocate for an interim chair until the next Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, warning that inaction could undermine the regional body’s credibility.
Frank’s concerns extend to the domestic stage, urging the National Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings against Tinubu. He emphasized, “A breach of the Constitution by a sitting President is an impeachable offence.” He further noted the adverse international implications of Tinubu’s alleged forgery, highlighting the increased scrutiny faced by Nigerians abroad due to the scandal.
The statement also calls on the Supreme Court to approach the Presidential election petition appeal with impartiality and in the interest of national stability. Frank quoted the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who previously emphasized the judiciary’s reliance on the constitution over public opinion.
Echoing the CJN’s sentiments, Frank stated, “We now have a clear case of breach of the Constitution by a President who submitted a forged certificate to INEC.” He further appealed to the Supreme Court Justices to stand firmly by the constitution.
The saga around President Tinubu’s alleged forgery continues to garner widespread attention both domestically and internationally, with its implications set to shape the narrative for the region and Nigeria in the coming months.
