A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has called on the United States to investigate and possibly sanction the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, over remarks he described as harmful to Nigeria’s democracy.
The demand follows a viral video in which Gbajabiamila was allegedly heard telling Leke Abejide, a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to remain in the opposition party and “scatter them,” a statement that has sparked widespread political reactions.
Reacting, Frank described the alleged comment as reckless and a threat to democratic stability.
He argued that such remarks from a top government official raise serious concerns about the integrity of Nigeria’s political system under Tinubu.
According to him, the statement suggests a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition parties and interfere in their internal affairs, warning that any insinuation of influence over judicial outcomes is dangerous for democracy.
“Your statement, as chief of staff, raises serious concerns about the determination by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to undermine democratic principles,” Frank said, adding that it could be interpreted as an infringement on judicial independence.
He further cautioned that linking political actors to court outcomes could erode public trust in democratic institutions, stressing the need for immediate clarification to avoid what he termed “dangerous interpretations.”
Frank also alleged that the comment reinforces suspicions of interference in opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the ADC.
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“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 added.
Calling for accountability, Frank urged Gbajabiamila to resign immediately, arguing that such conduct would not be tolerated in more established democracies.
He also disclosed plans to formally petition the United States Embassy in Nigeria, seeking international attention to actions he believes could undermine Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
“Those entrusted with leadership must reflect humility, constitutional awareness, and respect for separation of powers. Power is transient, but institutions must endure,” Frank said.
As of the time of filing this report, neither Gbajabiamila nor the Presidency has issued an official response to the allegation.
