Former South-East presidential spokesman Denge Josef Onoh has called on French President Emmanuel Macron to suspend his planned visit to Nigeria, arguing that France’s domestic challenges should take precedence over international engagements.
Macron is expected to undertake a state visit to Nigeria on October 28 and 29, 2026, as both countries seek to strengthen their diplomatic and economic relations. the proposed dates earlier this month.
Onoh made the appeal in a statement released to journalists in Abuja on Sunday, insisting that Macron should focus on addressing the unrest in France rather than proceeding with his scheduled diplomatic engagements abroad.
He argued that effective leadership requires prioritising pressing domestic concerns, warning that pursuing international partnerships while facing serious challenges at home could send the wrong message.
According to Onoh, the French president should address the grievances of protesters and work towards restoring stability before rescheduling his Nigerian visit.
He also expressed sympathy with the French government and citizens, describing the reported unrest as a challenge to the country’s social cohesion and longstanding cultural values.
Turning to Nigeria, Onoh maintained that the country must concentrate on resolving its own challenges, particularly as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
He said Nigeria needed leadership capable of rebuilding the economy and restoring confidence in public institutions, adding that the forthcoming election would be an important opportunity for citizens to determine the country’s direction.
Onoh further urged the Nigerian presidency to consider the implications of Macron’s domestic challenges for bilateral engagements, including potential agreements on economic cooperation, energy and security.
He acknowledged the importance of international diplomacy and Nigeria’s position as a destination for global partnerships, but argued that France should first address its domestic difficulties.
To support his position, Onoh cited the postponement of a planned visit to France by Britain’s King Charles III in March 2023 amid protests over pension reforms. He also referenced the unrest of May 1968 and the suburban riots of 2005 as historical examples of domestic crises affecting France.
He concluded by urging Macron to remain in France, address the concerns of his citizens and reschedule the Nigerian visit for a more appropriate time.
However, Onoh’s call represents his personal position on the timing of the visit. The reported unrest and its implications were not independently established in the statement.
