Cosmas Chukwu, Enugu
Former South-East presidential spokesman, Denge Josef Onoh, has urged French President Emmanuel Macron to suspend his planned state visit to Nigeria scheduled for October 28 and 29, 2026, arguing that France’s domestic challenges should take precedence over international engagements.
Onoh, in a statement made available to journalists on Sunday in Abuja, said Macron should remain in France to address the unrest and protests reportedly affecting the country rather than embark on diplomatic engagements abroad.
He argued that effective leadership requires a president to prioritise domestic stability, particularly when social unrest threatens national cohesion.
“True statesmanship requires prioritising the home front when the foundations are shaking,” Onoh said.
“President Macron cannot be seen playing global politics and chasing bilateral photo-ops in Abuja while the streets of Paris and other French cities are burning. You do not go structural shopping in Africa when your own house is on fire.”
Onoh expressed sympathy with the French government and people, describing the situation as painful for those who have lived in France or experienced its hospitality and cultural heritage.
He called on the French government to prioritise what he described as enduring French values, insisting that the preservation of a nation’s identity and heritage was essential to its strength.
Turning to Nigeria, Onoh said the country should concentrate on addressing its domestic challenges and preparing for the 2027 presidential election, which he described as an opportunity to rebuild the economy and restore confidence in public institutions.
According to him, Macron’s proposed visit at this time could distract from Nigeria’s political priorities and might not deliver the desired results if the French leader remained preoccupied with developments at home.
“Nigeria has its problems, and it is the sole responsibility of Nigerians to focus on and solve their own problems,” he said, urging Nigerians to use the forthcoming election to choose a leader capable of fundamentally transforming the economy and strengthening institutions.
Onoh also cited previous instances in which French leaders adjusted their international engagements amid domestic crises.
He recalled that Macron requested the postponement of a planned state visit by Britain’s King Charles III in March 2023 amid violent protests over pension reforms in France.
He further referenced the May 1968 unrest under former President Charles de Gaulle and the suburban riots of 2005 under former President Jacques Chirac as historical examples of the challenges French leaders have faced during periods of domestic instability.
Onoh maintained that a head of state grappling with serious internal challenges might find it difficult to give adequate attention to international negotiations and agreements.
He urged the Nigerian presidency to consider the circumstances surrounding the proposed visit, particularly in relation to the economic, energy and security partnerships Nigeria hopes to pursue with France.
“We love diplomacy, and Nigeria remains a premier destination for global partnerships. However, we need a French President who is stable at home to partner with us effectively abroad,” he said.
Onoh called on Macron to address protesters’ grievances and reschedule his Nigerian visit for a more suitable period.
“For the sake of the French people and the integrity of international diplomacy, President Macron should stay in Paris, face the protesters, address their grievances, and reschedule his Nigerian visit for a time when France is not burning,” he added.
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