A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s speech at the ongoing COP 28 climate change conference in Dubai.
Frank labelled the speech as “one of the most embarrassing speeches ever” and demanded an apology to Nigerians for its content.
In a statement released in Abuja, Frank condemned not only the content of the speech but also the over 1,400-strong delegation accompanying the President to the international event.
He criticized the large delegation as contradictory to the government’s promised expenditure reduction and an unnecessary drain on government funds.
Frank estimated the cost of this extensive delegation to be over $20 million, highlighting Nigeria as the sole African country and the third globally to have such a vast contingent.
Expressing disappointment, Frank highlighted the negative global attention drawn by President Tinubu’s speech, describing it as inconsistent, off-topic, and subject to ridicule among Nigerians worldwide.
He criticized the delegation’s lack of visibility and productivity at the event, contrasting it with smaller delegations from other countries that achieved more substantial outcomes.
The political activist urged President Tinubu to apologize to Nigerians for the embarrassment caused by the speech and the unproductive nature of the large delegation.
Frank emphasized the adverse effects of such occurrences on Nigeria’s international reputation and investor confidence.
“Other world leaders were very visible, initiating deals on the sidelines whereas the delegation from Nigeria was partying and shopping around Dubai and nowhere to be found.
“We are hopeful that some day, Nigerians will witness a true leader who will change the narrative for the better,” he added.
