ABUJA/Nigeria: Comrade Timi Frank, the former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed his concerns about the capacity of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to combat corruption and criminality in the country. Frank strongly condemned the ongoing ministerial screening process led by the Godswill Akpabio-led 10th Senate, terming it a “charade.”
One of Frank’s main points of criticism was the appointment of Mr. Jim Obazee as a Special Investigator to probe certain activities, which he considered a mere facade for the impending witch-hunt of opposition party members. He accused the ruling party of lacking credibility, zeal, and a genuine commitment to fighting corruption, suggesting that the administration provides an opportunity for looters and criminals to operate freely.
Frank emphasized the importance of President Bola Tinubu making decisions for the Nigerian state with utmost decorum and sincerity, considering that he is only holding the nation’s commonwealth temporarily. He warned that the world is closely watching, and history will judge the actions and inaction of the government.
Regarding the ongoing ministerial screening exercise in the National Assembly, Frank labeled it a “national shame and disgrace.” He expressed dismay at the lack of proper scrutiny and cross-examination of the ministerial nominees’ credentials and competence. Frank criticized the Senate President, who himself was under investigation for alleged corrupt practices, and claimed that the screening process lacked integrity.
He urged the Senate President to discontinue the live television screening and stop wasting taxpayers’ money on what he referred to as a “show of shame.” Frank accused some legislators of undermining the Nigerian people and making a mockery of the citizens by not conducting a thorough vetting of the nominees. He argued that this behavior might be one of the reasons why some West African countries had experienced military takeovers in recent times.
In conclusion, Timi Frank called on President Tinubu to exercise his veto power and appoint individuals of merit directly, rather than subjecting them to a Senate screening process he deemed ineffective and compromised.
