Home Minister Olubunmi Tunji-ojo condemned the Canadian Embassy for refusing to issue visas to Defence Staff (CDS). Christopher Musa.
Controversy arose when General Mousa revealed that he and several senior officers were deprived of visas to attend Canadian events commemorating veterans in Canada. Although some members of the delegation were granted visas, others were stranded after their application was denied.
Musa expressed disappointment, describing the incident as a “wake-up” for Nigeria to strengthen its sovereignty and resistance to foreign countries.
Tunji-Ojo spoke on the channel’s TV show “Everyday Sunrise” condemning the Canadian Embassy’s actions disrespectful to Nigeria.
“Without knowing the whole facts, I think that even for us, it is a policy, I have always believed that reciprocity issues must be properly considered. Although we are not ready to get involved in the sovereignty of other countries, But the visa issue and immigration management issue are a sovereignty issue.
“Although we don’t want to get involved in this, it doesn’t respect me to me, and without knowing the facts, it doesn’t respect the country, as a nation, it doesn’t respect us. Respect. If this could happen to the person in charge of the defense personnel, then I’m worried about the average Nigerian.”
Tunji-Ojo strives to find any reason for Canada’s actions, adding that diplomatic channels should be used even if the questions are raised. He will take the necessary steps to address the issue and ensure mutual respect is maintained between the two countries.
