Gbadebo Rhodes-Viviour, former Labour Party governorship candidate for Lagos State, has raised concerns over President Bola Tinubu’s frequent foreign trips, saying they provide minimal benefits to ordinary Nigerians who are grappling with economic hardship.
He stated this on Morning brief on Channels Tv on Tuesday.
Rhodes-Viviour, now a member of the African Democratic Congres, ADC, specifically questioned the timing of Tinubu’s ongoing state visit to the United Kingdom, citing rising fuel prices and other domestic challenges.
“The President has spent a significant amount of time travelling abroad while the people are experiencing extreme hardship. That is unprecedented.
“Considering the pain Nigerians are dealing with, particularly higher petrol and diesel prices, I don’t think this visit is a priority right now,” Rhodes-Viviour said.
He further argued that while foreign visits may enhance the President’s image and lend international credibility, they do little to improve the everyday lives of Nigerians.
“Visiting abroad may add legitimacy and credibility to his position as President. It is good for him, his image, and his party, but I don’t see how it benefits the average Nigerian. For him, certainly, it is beneficial.”
President Tinubu is currently in the UK for a state visit, in company with the First Lady, Remi Tinubu, and other top officials.
Hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle, the visit scheduled from March 18 to 19 is the first by a Nigerian leader to Britain in 37 years.
The presidency said the trip aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and explore avenues for collaboration between the two countries.
By Vanessa Onah
