Fresh controversy has erupted over Nigeria’s political climate as a former spokesperson of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, called for international sanctions against key officials in the federal government.
In a strongly worded statement, Frank appealed to the United States and other global actors to impose visa bans, asset freezes, and economic sanctions on individuals he accused of undermining democratic principles in Nigeria. His comments come amid rising political tension ahead of future elections.
Frank alleged that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu is using state institutions to weaken opposition parties, claiming the goal is to prevent the emergence of any formidable challenger. He warned that such actions could destabilise the country if left unchecked.
According to him, key institutions including the judiciary and legislature are being manipulated to frustrate opposition forces. He argued that democracy must remain a competition of ideas, not what he described as a system tilted in favour of those in power.
The former APC chieftain also raised concerns about the role of the Central Bank of Nigeria, accusing its governor, Yemi Cardoso, of allegedly supporting activities that could undermine democratic processes. He called for sanctions against the bank’s leadership if such claims are substantiated.
On the electoral front, Frank criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission, describing its leadership as biased and warning that the institution risks losing public trust if it is perceived to favour political interests.
He urged the United Nations and other members of the international community to act swiftly, cautioning that instability in Nigeria could have far-reaching consequences across Africa and beyond. “The international community must not wait until Nigeria descends into crisis,” he said.
Frank added that he is prepared to provide foreign governments with details of assets allegedly owned by Nigerian officials abroad, particularly in jurisdictions such as the U.S., the U.K., and the UAE, to support targeted sanctions. He also called on the U.S. Embassy to deny visas to individuals he described as anti-democratic actors.
Framing his intervention as a warning, Frank said urgent steps are needed to protect Nigeria’s democracy and prevent what he characterised as a drift toward authoritarian rule.
