‘What a Shame!’: PDP’s Bode George Condemns Tinubu’s Paris Visit as Nigerians Struggle

 

Bode George Criticizes President Tinubu’s Trip to France Amid Rising Insecurity

In a scathing critique, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart Chief Bode George has condemned President Bola Tinubu for embarking on a trip to France at a time when Nigeria is grappling with escalating insecurity, economic hardship, and widespread discontent.

George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, did not mince words in a statement he issued, titled “Whither Nigeria, My Beloved Country.” He described Tinubu’s foreign visit as ill-timed and insensitive, considering the multiple crises plaguing the country.

The President departed Nigeria for France on Wednesday, with his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, confirming that he is expected to be away for approximately two weeks. However, the purpose of the trip remains undisclosed, fueling speculation and criticism from opposition figures like George, who argue that the country’s leader should be focusing on pressing domestic issues.

‘Nigerians No Longer Feel Safe’

George emphasized the growing insecurity across Nigeria, noting that citizens live in constant fear due to the rising cases of kidnappings, banditry, and insurgency. He accused the Tinubu administration of failing to provide adequate solutions to these challenges and instead diverting attention to what he termed as “trivial matters.”

He specifically referenced the recent discussions around the recall of suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as an example of misplaced priorities.

“Nigerians don’t feel safe anymore in their fatherland, but the Federal Government, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Senate are only interested in recalling Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. What a shame!” he stated.

Warning from History

George also drew a historical parallel between the current administration’s governance style and the events that led to the collapse of Nigeria’s First and Second Republics. He warned that if care was not taken, the APC-led government might be heading toward a similar fate.

“Aside from the fact that history is a faithful record of the past, it is also a prophecy of what is coming. That is why Fela’s song is still apt, decades after. Today, I see what led to the collapse of the First and Second Republics being repeated by the APC-led Federal Government,” he remarked.

His reference to legendary Afrobeat musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti is significant, as Fela was known for his politically charged music, often criticizing Nigerian leaders for corruption, misgovernance, and neglect of the masses.

Backlash Against Tinubu’s Absence

Tinubu’s two-week trip has sparked debates, with many questioning the necessity of his absence at a time when the country is facing severe economic and security challenges. Nigerians are currently dealing with skyrocketing food prices, mass unemployment, and a deteriorating standard of living.

The President’s media team has yet to provide a concrete reason for his trip, leaving the public in the dark about its purpose and benefits to the nation. Critics argue that his prolonged absence reflects a lack of urgency in addressing the country’s most pressing issues.

A Pattern of Foreign Travels?

This is not the first time Tinubu has faced criticism for traveling abroad amid domestic concerns. Since assuming office, he has embarked on multiple foreign visits, leading to accusations that he is more focused on international engagements than addressing Nigeria’s internal crises.

While some of these trips have been for diplomatic and economic purposes, the secrecy surrounding his latest journey has raised suspicions and frustration among citizens who believe the President should be fully present to tackle the country’s worsening security and economic woes.

Growing Discontent in Opposition Circles

George’s remarks are the latest in a series of criticisms from opposition leaders who have continuously challenged the Tinubu administration’s handling of governance. The PDP and other opposition voices have accused the APC government of failing to deliver on its promises, particularly in securing the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians.

As Tinubu spends the next two weeks in France, Nigerians will be watching closely to see if his absence leads to any tangible benefits for the country. Meanwhile, the debate over leadership priorities and accountability continues to dominate national discourse.