Timi Frank Calls for US Probe, Sanctions Against Femi Gbajabiamila Over Democracy Remarks

Former All Progressives Congress deputy spokesman Timi Frank has urged the United States government to investigate and impose sanctions on Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, over remarks perceived as undermining Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

The call follows a widely circulated video in which Gbajabiamila allegedly advised Leke Abejide, a member of the House of Representatives representing Yagba Federal Constituency in Kogi State, to remain in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and assist in disrupting the party. In the footage, Gbajabiamila reportedly stated, “Don’t come to APC. Stay in ADC and scatter them. We like what you’re doing… stay in ADC and win your election… bring Bala Gombe, and we’ll support him. Good luck in court.”

Frank described the comments as “reckless” and warned they signal a deliberate effort to weaken opposition parties and erode public trust in democratic institutions. He argued that such statements, coming from the Chief of Staff, raise serious questions about the administration’s respect for judicial independence and the separation of powers.

“An inference can be made that there is an infringement on the independence of the judiciary,” Frank said. “Any suggestion that courts could be influenced undermines public confidence in democratic institutions.”

He further claimed that Gbajabiamila’s remarks confirm the presidency’s involvement in internal crises within major opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the ADC. “When a chief of staff speaks, it reflects the body language of the president,” Frank noted. “This points to a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition and consolidate power.”

Frank called for Gbajabiamila’s immediate resignation, asserting that such conduct would not be tolerated in more established democracies. “If such a statement were made in the United States, the official involved would have resigned forthwith,” he said.

He also disclosed plans to petition the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, emphasizing that public officials must uphold constitutional principles and respect institutional independence. “Power is transient, but institutions must endure. Any comment that diminishes their independence must be corrected,” he added.

The controversy has reignited debate over political interference in Nigeria’s opposition parties and the integrity of its electoral and judicial systems.