PDP Criticizes Tinubu for Honoring Indian Prime Minister with GCON

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticized President Bola Tinubu for conferring Nigeria’s second-highest national honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his state visit.

Timothy Osadolor, the PDP’s Deputy National Youth Leader, labeled the gesture a “misplaced priority,” arguing that the award should not be given based solely on friendship. Osadolor questioned the basis for bestowing such a significant honor, emphasizing that Nigeria’s challenges require practical solutions, not symbolic gestures.

He remarked, “Tinubu should have sought insights from Prime Minister Modi on how India transformed from being the poverty capital of the world to becoming one of the fastest-growing economies globally, with tech giants like Microsoft and Silicon Valley startups led by Indians.”

Osadolor further criticized the administration for focusing on “frivolities,” urging Tinubu to prioritize policies that attract investments and address Nigeria’s pressing issues.

APC Defends Tinubu’s Decision

In contrast, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) defended the president’s actions. Nze Chidi Duru, the APC’s Deputy National Organizing Secretary, called the criticism unwarranted, arguing that the president acted within his rights.

Duru stated, “The president has the prerogative to confer national honors, and the focus should shift to how these partnerships can improve Nigeria’s economy and address challenges such as food security and business development.”

Strengthening India-Nigeria Relations

During the Nigeria-India bilateral meeting, President Tinubu explained that the honor symbolized Nigeria’s appreciation for its strong relationship with India. Modi, in turn, pledged 20 tonnes of relief materials for flood victims in Nigeria and expressed a commitment to deepening ties in defense, technology, energy, and education.

The partnership was also highlighted by Dr. Sylvester Okere, a Nigerian security expert based in the United States. Okere noted that Modi’s visit would facilitate high-level discussions to enhance trade and security cooperation between the two nations. He is set to represent Nigeria at the 19th Security Leadership Summit 2024 in India, focusing on strengthening ties in securing people and assets.

While the conferment sparked political debate, the visit underscored the potential for enhanced collaboration between Nigeria and India across critical sectors.