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Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip Pierre, has criticised the backlash surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to the Caribbean nation.
During his 2025 Emancipation Day address on August 1, Pierre condemned the “vilification and denigration” of Tinubu’s June 29 visit, describing the reaction as a harmful legacy of colonialism that continues to distort perceptions of African leadership.
“A politically motivated group, tacitly backed by the opposition, vilified and denigrated the President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu. This reaction reflected the enduring effects of slavery — self-hate and an ingrained belief in the inferiority of Africans and their descendants,” Pierre said.
Following Tinubu’s trip on July 29, Nigerian critics — particularly opposition politicians — questioned the visit’s timing, citing the recent deadly flood in Minna, Niger State, which killed dozens.
Opposition figures in Saint Lucia also scrutinised the visit’s cost, temporary airport closures, and the tangible benefits of any bilateral agreements.
Pierre dismissed these criticisms as politically driven and rooted in disrespect for African heritage.
He reiterated Saint Lucia’s appreciation for Tinubu’s visit and expressed a strong desire to deepen ties with Nigeria.
“That behaviour was shameful and disgraceful. Had a leader from another part of the world visited, that same group would likely have responded with respect,” he stated.
“To the government and people of Nigeria, Saint Lucia remains honoured by your president’s visit.”
Emancipation Day in Saint Lucia commemorates the abolition of slavery in the British Caribbean and serves as a time for reflection on racial justice, Pan-Africanism, and solidarity with the African diaspora.
