Former APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary Comrade Timi Frank has said the decision to award Gilbert Chagoury the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) shows that corruption is being normalised in Nigeria.
Frank described the honour as a “dark day” for the country and warned that it weakens public trust in government.
“Today ranks among the saddest days of my life as a Nigerian,” he said, referring to reports that a Swiss court convicted Chagoury in 2000 over laundering funds linked to the late General Sani Abacha regime.
He added that Chagoury reportedly paid a fine of one million Swiss francs and returned about $66 million to the Nigerian government.
“To bestow one of our highest national honours on a person publicly tainted by allegations and judicial findings of corruption sends a deeply troubling message about our national values,” Frank said.
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Frank also raised concerns about a possible conflict of interest, noting reports that Chagoury is linked to President Bola Tinubu and the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project.
“A sitting President should not be in business dealings—directly or indirectly—with close associates while holding office,” he said.
He also warned that the move could harm Nigeria’s international image and urged the US not to be misled by lobbyists or vested interests.
“A President reputed for standing against corruption and poor governance should be cautious about associating… with a government that glorifies individuals with controversial corruption histories,” Frank said.
Frank questioned what Chagoury has done to deserve the award and asked Nigerians to demand clarity.
“What hospitals, schools or scholarships has he built or funded to merit this honour?” he asked.
He urged citizens and opposition parties to treat the issue as a wake-up call.
“A nation where individuals accused or convicted of corruption are protected, defended or even honoured is a nation drifting dangerously toward institutionalised impunity,” he said.
“Nigeria deserves better.”