ABUJA, Nigeria — Timi Frank, a vocal political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has lambasted the United States for allegedly exhibiting double standards concerning the release of Chicago State University academic records of Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu.
“Actions taken seriously in the US turn into a farce when it concerns Nigeria,” Frank declared, urging President Tinubu to permit the US university to unveil his academic documents to a Nigerian court, provided he has no skeletons in his academic closet.
The rising tension stems from a recent legal move. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar sought President Tinubu’s academic records from Chicago State University.
Yet, only days after the court’s subpoena, Tinubu counteracted with a motion aimed at restraining the court from disclosing his academic details.
Frank expressed grave concern, stating, “It’s shocking that a sitting President, who vowed to maintain the office’s dignity, would aim to muzzle the U.S. judiciary through frivolous tactics unknown to their Justice department.”
Drawing parallels to the rigorous justice system in the U.S., he referenced former U.S. President Donald Trump’s extensive legal scrutiny, questioning why Tinubu wasn’t held to a similar standard.
“If Trump’s information is divulged by agencies like the CIA and FBI, why is the US aiding potential secrecy in Nigeria?”
Frank further emphasized, “When a subpoena is issued, it demands respect. For those who aspire to lead Nigeria, scrutiny by Nigerians is the least expected.”
Casting doubts on U.S. objectivity, he pointed out that when it comes to America’s interests, they “underplay matters that would never be downplayed in their own land,” jeopardizing their credibility in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
President Tinubu’s reluctance to disclose his academic information, arguing U.S. privacy laws from 1974 protect him, has raised eyebrows and stirred debate over his real identity and qualifications.
Frank concluded by asserting faith in the U.S. justice system, expressing hope for a fair and transparent judicial proceeding.
“All eyes are on the U.S. as this unfolds. A clear resolution could restore faith in international transparency and trust.”
