Saint Lucia PM criticises opposition over reaction to President Tinubu’s visit
By Kunle Sanni –
Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Philip J. Pierre, has criticised opposition groups for their response to the recent visit by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, describing their reaction as “shameful and disgraceful.”
Speaking during his Emancipation Day address in Castries, Pierre expressed deep disappointment over the backlash that followed Tinubu’s historic visit, which resulted in the signing of several cooperation agreements between the two countries. He accused the opposition of perpetuating self-hate and showing disrespect toward African leadership.
“Had the visit been by a Head of State from another country, the reception from that group would have been, at the very least, respectful,” Pierre said. “This kind of behaviour reflects a deeper issue of internalised colonial values and a failure to appreciate our African heritage.”
The Prime Minister reaffirmed Saint Lucia’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria and the broader African continent, calling the visit a significant step toward greater diplomatic and economic collaboration.
His remarks came as Saint Lucia marked the 191st anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the British Empire. Pierre used the occasion to urge citizens to confront the lingering effects of colonialism and embrace African unity, national pride, and social progress.
“As we honour the sacred memory of our ancestors… we are not only looking back—we are reaching forward,” Pierre declared.
He acknowledged the progress made since emancipation in 1834 but cautioned that psychological scars and systemic inequalities still persist, holding back parts of the population.
