Timi Frank Slams Tinubu over ‘Lagos-centric Agenda’

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has accused President Bola Tinubu of diverting major government decisions, investments, and agreements to Lagos State.

Fran, in a statement issued yesterday,y alleged that the “calculated actions” by Tinubu’s administration were aimed at relocating Nigeria’s federal capital from Abuja to Lagos, while sidelining other regions of the country.

He also alleged that federal appointments and development initiatives under Tinubu have been largely one-sided, warning that such a trend undermines national unity.

Frank thought that Nigeria needs leadership that treats all regions fairly and ensures equitable distribution of opportunities, infrastructure, and governance.

He said: “It is now clear that the president’s long-term plan is to concentrate political and economic power in Lagos if given another term in office.

“No president should pursue personal interests at the expense of national unity. What we are witnessing is an unprecedented level of division among Nigerians across regions.

“There is a growing sense of alienation and division among Nigerians that is deeply troubling.

“It appears to be a deliberate strategy to impoverish certain regions, especially the North, South, and South-east, so that citizens are economically weakened ahead of the 2027 election cycle.”

Frank accused the administration of worsening nepotism beyond previous governments, including that of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

He argued that while past administrations had been criticised for imbalance, “this is the worst,” alleging that key positions and benefits are disproportionately skewed.

Frank also raised concerns over a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and foreign loans, alleging that many of them are tied to projects in Lagos without a visible nationwide impact.

“Where are Tinubu’s MOUs tied to agricultural and livestock production in the North, industrial development in the South-east, and oil and gas development in the South-south? None!” he said

Frank claimed that despite multiple agreements and borrowings, Nigerians are yet to see corresponding tangible developments across the country, questioning the transparency and execution of such deals.

The APC’s former leader warned that such agreements could deepen Nigeria’s debt burden without delivering commensurate value, alleging that the country risks being used to boost foreign industries at its own expense.

According to him, “Nigeria must not be turned into a dumping ground for exploitative financial arrangements disguised as partnerships.”