By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
REFUSAL BY the Canadian High Commission to grant a visa to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has ignited significant diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
This incident has prompted strong reactions from top Nigerian officials, who view the move as a profound disrespect to the country.
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Sunrise Daily’ programme, expressed deep dissatisfaction with Canada’s decision.
He emphasised that while visa issuance is a sovereign right, denying entry to a high-ranking official like the CDS undermines Nigeria’s national dignity.
Tunji-Ojo remarked, “Without knowing the full facts, I believe that even for us in terms of visa policy, the issue of reciprocity, as I always say, must be given due consideration.”
He further questioned the treatment of ordinary Nigerians if such a high-profile figure could face such challenges.
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu also weighed in on the matter, expressing his displeasure during a public event in Abuja.
He retorted, “They can go to hell,” venting his perceived disrespect in the visa denial.
Ribadu commended General Musa for his transparency regarding the incident and emphasised the need for Nigeria to assert its sovereignty and not be taken for granted on the international stage.
In response to the growing controversy, the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria issued a statement acknowledging awareness of the media reports concerning the planned travel of senior Nigerian officials.
However, citing privacy reasons, the Commission declined to comment on specific visa applications.
The statement read, “The High Commission of Canada in Nigeria is aware of media reports related to planned travel to Canada by senior officials.
“However, for privacy reasons, we are unable to provide any comment on the status of visa applications of specific individuals.”
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Bello Matawalle also expressed profound disappointment over the incident, suggesting that such actions could jeopardise bilateral relations between Nigeria and Canada.
He called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the reasons behind the visa denial, asserting that Nigeria must respond decisively to uphold its reputation as a key player in global affairs.
Matawalle stated, “This incident is not merely a bureaucratic oversight; it is a serious affront to our national dignity and integrity,” as posted on the defence.gov.ng
