Former All Progressives Congress deputy spokesman Timi Frank has called on the United States government to investigate and sanction Femi Gbajabiamila, the President’s Chief of Staff, over remarks that appear to undermine Nigeria’s democratic institutions. The demand follows a widely circulated video in which Gbajabiamila allegedly advises Leke Abejide, a House of Representatives member for Yagba Federal Constituency in Kogi State, to remain in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and help disrupt the party. In the footage Gbajabiamila is reported to have said, “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, warning that they signal a deliberate effort to weaken opposition parties and erode public trust in democratic institutions. He argued that such statements 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.”
Frank 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,” he noted, adding that this points to a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition and consolidate power. He 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.
Frank also announced 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.
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