A Nigerian cleric, Michael Olowookere, has alleged that the recent state visit of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the United Kingdom was not originally initiated by the British royal family but was instead influenced by pressure from the Nigerian government.
In a statement that has circulated widely on social media, Olowookere claimed the visit was part of a strategic effort by the administration to strengthen its international image ahead of future political contests.
According to him, the Nigerian government allegedly sought to secure a form of global credibility by aligning with prominent international institutions and personalities. He argued that the move was intended to counter narratives circulating globally about alleged killings and claims of Christian persecution in parts of Nigeria.
The cleric further alleged that officials presented concerns to British authorities that instability in Nigeria could have wider regional and global implications if not addressed.
He claimed the visit served two different interests: helping the ruling All Progressives Congress project political legitimacy internationally while also allowing British authorities to reinforce diplomatic relations and stability in Africa’s most populous nation.
Olowookere concluded that, in his view, the arrangement represented a “mutual benefit” for both sides but ultimately did not address the concerns of ordinary Nigerians.
