By Lanre Oloyede
Presidency has accused former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, of promoting foreign interference in nation’s security affairs, describing it as “unacceptable and unforgettable.”
The presidency, in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, while reacting to a video surfaced in which Obi expressed readiness to welcome assistance from the United States to fight terrorism if he becomes president, added that such endorsement was act of sabotage.
The statement argued that the real national conversation should centre on insecurity, not claims of Christian persecution.
“When you are offered help in an area of urgent need, it is not the time for arguments,” he said. “If I am declared president today, my foremost priority will be the protection of lives and property. My next focus will be lifting people out of poverty, because reducing poverty reduces crime.”
According to Onanuga, “We shall never forgive Peter Obi for supporting a foreign military intrusion into Nigeria.”
Meanwhile, the United States has reaffirmed its willingness to strengthen security ties with Nigeria following a series of engagements between top Nigerian officials and American authorities in Washington, D.C.
The Nigerian delegation, led by National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, held meetings with members of the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of Defense.
During the meetings, Nigeria’s representatives dismissed allegations of genocide, stressing that violent incidents cut across all ethnic and religious groups. They warned that false narratives could damage national cohesion and obstruct ongoing efforts to combat terrorism.
The US government expressed readiness to broaden cooperation through improved intelligence sharing, quicker processing of defence equipment requests, and the possible transfer of surplus American defence assets.
Washington also promised humanitarian support for communities affected by conflict in the Middle Belt and technical assistance to enhance early-warning systems that help prevent attacks.
Both countries agreed to form a Joint Working Group and begin immediate implementation of a non-binding framework for coordinated action.
The Nigerian delegation included Attorney General Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Intelligence Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, NSA Special Adviser Idayat Hassan, and Ambassador Ibrahim Babani. They reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to protecting civilians and adhering to global humanitarian standards.
The Presidency assured Nigerians that decisive measures are being taken to strengthen national security, safeguard communities, and stabilise affected regions.
