The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Philip J. Pierre, has strongly criticized what he described as politically driven attacks against Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s visit to the Caribbean nation.
He made the remarks during his 2025 Emancipation Day address to the nation.
Pierre expressed deep disappointment over how some individuals and groups reacted to Tinubu’s visit.
He specifically blamed a politically motivated faction, allegedly backed by Nigeria’s opposition, for spreading hate and false narratives.
According to him, their reaction dishonored the spirit of African unity and the legacy of shared history between Africa and the Caribbean.
President Tinubu had traveled to Saint Lucia to strengthen diplomatic ties.
His visit aimed to build formal relations with the island and members of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
However, soon after his arrival, critics mostly Nigerians began attacking the move online and in opposition circles.
In response, Prime Minister Pierre didn’t hold back. He said such vilification reflects the deep scars left by colonialism and slavery.
He warned that self-hate and a belief in African inferiority remain serious threats to global Black solidarity.
According to him, attacking a sitting African leader, especially during a visit intended to foster collaboration, is both shameful and destructive.
Pierre called on Africans and people of African descent to support each other more consistently.
He argued that the time had come to reject division and embrace unity, not just in words but through action and policy.
He also reminded Saint Lucians of the historic and cultural ties they share with Africa, particularly Nigeria.
Looking ahead, Pierre reaffirmed his government’s commitment to fully implement the Memorandum of Understanding signed with Nigeria.
He emphasized that both nations stand to gain from closer cooperation in trade, culture, and education.
Finally, the Prime Minister urged Saint Lucians to rise above political noise and focus on building enduring partnerships with Africa.