By Eseoghene Emuke
A former three-term member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Daniel Reyenieju, has described as disrespectful the denial of visas to the Nigerian delegation led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, by the Canadian government.
Reyenieju, who represented Warri Federal Constituency, faulted the decision, saying such blatant disrespect must not be tolerated by the Nigerian government.
The Canadian Embassy had denied the Chief of Defence Staff and some other senior military officers who were billed to attend the Invictus Games in Canada.
The development had since infuriated many Nigerians, who described it as a slap on the most populous Black nation.
Reacting to the development through a statement on Wednesday, Reyenieju frowned at the motive behind the decision of the Canadian authorities to disrespect Nigerian military officials voluntarily invited for such games.
He noted that the incident was not merely an isolated oversight but exemplified a troubling and persistent pattern of disrespect toward Nigeria and her citizens, adding that such a decision “is utterly intolerable.”
Reyenieju said, “The denial of visas to high-ranking officials and essential team members, despite their strict adherence to all protocols, is not just disheartening but an outright affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty and dignity on the global stage. Such blatant contempt undermines the respect that Nigeria, as a great nation, rightfully demands.”
While acknowledging the disappointment expressed by the Chief of Defence Staff, Reyenieju insists that a much more forceful response is warranted against the North American country as Nigeria’s response to the insult.
According to him, “Nigeria must engage in diplomatic reciprocity to address this grave insult. This could involve a thorough review of all standing appointments with Canadian citizens in Nigeria, sending a resounding message that Nigeria will not tolerate such flagrant disrespect.
“It is imperative that nations treat each other with the respect that befits their status.
“Nigeria must assert itself as a sovereign nation that demands equal treatment on the international stage. By taking decisive diplomatic measures, we can compel foreign nations to acknowledge Nigeria’s significance and uphold the respect our country deserves.”
Reyenieju, who further posited that the incident should not be dismissed as a mere oversight, counseled, “Instead, it should serve as a catalyst for urgent change in how Nigeria is perceived and treated by the international community. It is time for Nigeria to stand resolutely and demand the respect that is rightfully ours.”
