A former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s comments on bribe-seeking officials during a meeting with investors in Qatar.
The President had urged the gathering to report any Nigerian official soliciting bribes, emphasizing that the country is eliminating all barriers to investment.
During an appearance on Channels TV’s Politics Today on Sunday, Osita described the President’s statement as “unfortunate,” stating that the President’s job is to “sell Nigeria” and not to de-market the country.
He pointed out that there are many Nigerians who will not ask for a bribe or disturb people, and that those who do are in the minority.
The ex-minister further argued that the President’s role is to be the chief spokesperson and chief salesperson of Nigeria, and that the government should have a pro-investment theme and focus on attracting foreign exchange.
He also mentioned that the President’s statement might have been due to poor briefing from the agencies of government, and he specifically mentioned the Minister of Information and Foreign Affairs.
Osita Chidoka believes that the President should focus on telling a good story about Nigeria and emphasizing the country’s commitment to democracy and the Africa’s rising narrative.
He also suggested that if there are instances of bribery, they should be reported to the appropriate authorities such as the police, EFCC, or ICPC.
