Bello Mohammed, Nigeria's minister of state for defence, has condemned the reported use of a foreign lobbying firm by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to spread old documents about President Bola Tinubu in the United States. He called the strategy counterproductive and damaging to Nigeria's standing globally.
In a statement released Friday through his media aide Ahmad Dan-Wudil, Mohammed said opposition figures should redirect their efforts toward supporting government initiatives on security, national cohesion, and citizens' welfare instead. The minister deemed the reported move unfortunate and said it neither strengthens democracy nor tackles the nation's real problems.
"The Presidency is a national institution and symbol of Nigeria's sovereignty that deserves respect, regardless of political differences," the statement read. "No foreign government or lobbying firm will determine Nigeria's democratic choices or alter the mandate freely given by Nigerians."
Mohammed stressed that political disagreements must not harm the country's image or collective interests. He highlighted that President Donald Trump recently praised President Tinubu's leadership and acknowledged Nigeria's strides in security cooperation and counter-terrorism efforts.
Such global acknowledgment shows rising confidence in Nigeria's trajectory under Tinubu, the minister noted. It should inspire all patriots to collaborate rather than spread divisive messages internationally, he argued.
"Promoting propaganda and hatred against a government that enjoys the goodwill of the people will not affect its well-being, survival, or progress," Mohammed said. "Rather, it will backfire on those sponsoring such utterances, who will be shamed politically and morally."
He dismissed suggestions that falsehoods could topple Tinubu's administration. "Those thinking that lies and mischief can bring down President Tinubu's government are jokers, because the country belongs to the people, and they will willingly renew the mandate in 2027," he added.
Mohammed urged opposition politicians to stop making statements that could trigger conflict between citizens and the legitimately elected government. He called on them to pursue constructive engagement instead by presenting viable policy alternatives.
The minister urged opposition actors to back ongoing efforts against insecurity and to champion peaceful coexistence and development. He warned against campaigns designed to inflame tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.
"Nigeria belongs to all of us, and every political actor has a responsibility to protect the country's unity, stability, and international reputation," the statement concluded.
