Nigerians Raise Eyebrows Over Tinubu’s Visit to St. Lucia Weeks After Police Seized $4.9m Worth of Cocaine

Nigerians Raise Eyebrows Over Tinubu’s Visit to St. Lucia Weeks After Police Seized $4.9m Worth of Cocaine

 

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent state visit to St. Lucia has sparked widespread reactions and speculation among Nigerians, particularly on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), due to its timing—just weeks after the Caribbean nation reported a major drug bust involving nearly $5 million worth of cocaine and cannabis.

 

According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu departed Nigeria on June 29, 2025, for an official diplomatic mission to the island nation.

 

However, many Nigerians have expressed concern and suspicion online, questioning the rationale behind the visit, especially in light of recent developments in St. Lucia.

 

The controversy follows a report by the St. Lucia Times, which revealed that the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) carried out a significant two-day operation targeting drug trafficking and illegal arms.

 

The operation led to the seizure of approximately 196.56 kilograms of cocaine—estimated at $4.9 million—hidden inside a camouflage dinghy at Dauphin Beach.

 

Additionally, a smaller raid in Mon Repos resulted in the recovery of cannabis resin and a Colt .357 revolver. One suspect, identified as Kyle Devonte Serieux, was arrested and later released on bail.

 

 

While no official link has been made between Tinubu’s visit and the drug operation, the proximity in timing has led to intense public discourse in Nigeria. Many users have taken to X, voicing demands for transparency and calling for more information about the objectives of the president’s trip.

 

 

“Of all countries to visit, why St. Lucia—and why now? The timing is too suspicious,” one user posted, while another wrote, “This administration owes Nigerians some serious explanations.”

 

 

President Tinubu’s itinerary in St. Lucia is expected to include bilateral discussions focused on trade, tourism, and cultural cooperation between Nigeria and the Caribbean nation.