The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticized President Bola Tinubu for conferring the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), Nigeria’s second-highest national honor, on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his state visit to Nigeria. The award was presented during a bilateral meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Sunday.
Tinubu explained that the honor was in recognition of Nigeria’s strong partnership with India, praising Modi for his leadership and India’s global achievements. He stated, “Nigeria values its excellent relationship with India. This award symbolizes Nigeria’s appreciation and commitment to India as a partner.”
Modi, in response, expressed his condolences for the recent floods in Nigeria and pledged 20 tonnes of relief materials. He also highlighted the productive discussions between the two leaders, which aimed to enhance cooperation in defense, energy, technology, trade, health, and education.
PDP’s Objection
However, the PDP, through its Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, questioned the rationale behind granting such an honor. Osadolor argued that national honors should be conferred based on clear criteria, not mere diplomatic gestures.
“It is not something you dish out for the sake of friendship,” Osadolor stated. He criticized Tinubu for what he called a misplaced priority, suggesting that the President should have sought insights from Modi on India’s economic transformation, technological advancements, and poverty alleviation strategies.
Osadolor added, “Instead of using this opportunity to learn how India has moved from being the poverty capital of the world to one of the fastest-growing economies, Tinubu focused on awarding a national honor for optics. This administration continues to play to the gallery instead of addressing pressing issues like hunger, poverty, and unemployment.”
He further questioned whether Tinubu had adequately engaged Modi on policies and investments that could benefit Nigeria.
APC’s Defense
In defense of the President, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy National Organizing Secretary, Nze Chidi Duru, dismissed the PDP’s criticisms as unwarranted. Duru asserted that Tinubu acted within his constitutional powers and followed due process in conferring the award.
“The President has the discretion to honor individuals as he deems fit, provided the process is lawful,” Duru said. He urged the PDP to focus on constructive opposition by proposing solutions to Nigeria’s challenges instead of “chasing shadows.”
Security Expert Highlights Opportunities
Meanwhile, a U.S.-based Nigerian security expert, Dr. Sylvester Okere, praised the visit, emphasizing its potential to strengthen Nigeria-India relations. Okere, scheduled to speak at the upcoming Security Leadership Summit in New Delhi, highlighted the importance of leveraging the partnership to address critical issues such as trade, energy, and security.
“This visit paves the way for high-level discussions that will benefit both nations. India’s advancements in technology and trade can provide a roadmap for Nigeria to address its socio-economic challenges,” Okere said.
The collaboration is expected to foster partnerships in education, security, and infrastructure, with experts like Okere advocating for stronger bilateral ties to secure assets and improve development outcomes.
