THE Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has criticized the Canadian Embassy for denying a visa to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, calling the decision disrespectful to the country.
General Musa revealed yesterday at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies that he and some members of his team were denied visas to attend an event honoring war veterans in Canada.
Speaking in an interview today, Tunji-Ojo condemned the move, questioning how ordinary Nigerians would be treated if a top military official could be subjected to such treatment.
He emphasized that while Nigeria respects the sovereignty of other nations, visa decisions should be handled with mutual respect and diplomatic consideration.
“Without knowing all the details, this is not just a slight against the Chief of Defence Staff; it is a slight against Nigeria as a nation. If this can happen to him, what hope does the average Nigerian have?” he said.
He also argued that any concerns Canada had could have been addressed through diplomatic channels rather than outright visa denial.
Tunji-Ojo expressed confidence that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would take appropriate steps to address the issue and ensure that Nigeria receives the respect it deserves on the international stage.
Meanwhile, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu did not hold back in his reaction to the visa denial.
Speaking at the same event where Musa made the revelation, Ribadu strongly criticized Canada’s decision, stating, “They can go to hell.”
He acknowledged the situation as disrespectful but urged Nigerians to remain focused on building a stronger country. “Yes, it is painful and disrespectful, but we are strong. This is yet another reason we must work harder to fix Nigeria,” he said.
Ribadu also commended Musa’s leadership in the fight against insecurity, noting that security agencies across the country are working together more effectively than ever before.