BREAKING: FG Accuses US of Overstepping Bounds, Interfering in Nigeria’s Internal Affairs

The Federal Government has accused the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria of crossing diplomatic lines by allegedly promoting a critical report targeting Nigerian leaders.

The Federal Government has accused the United States Embassy in Nigeria of overstepping diplomatic boundaries and interfering in internal affairs after a critical article about Nigerian leaders gained traction.

Officials expressed strong disapproval over the embassy’s alleged role in amplifying a report published by The Africa Report, which criticised Oyo and Gombe State governors for extravagant spending on government buildings.

“The embassy’s actions are not only inappropriate but violate diplomatic norms,” a senior government official said, accusing the U.S. Mission of promoting a “smear campaign” under the guise of press freedom.

The government defended Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo and Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, calling them “models of fiscal discipline.” Officials noted that both have kept up with workers’ salaries and invested in public service delivery.

Sources further claimed the article stemmed from a personal grudge. According to them, the publisher of The Africa Report had requested sponsorship from the Nigerian Governors’ Forum for an “Africa Roundtable” event but was denied. Officials said this rejection allegedly led to the negative coverage, now being “spread” by the U.S. Embassy.

“This isn’t journalism. It’s retaliation disguised as reporting, and the U.S. Mission’s role in spreading it is unacceptable,” said another official.

Citing Article 41(1) of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the government accused the embassy of violating the rule that prohibits foreign missions from meddling in local affairs.

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Tensions have been simmering between Abuja and Washington. The government had earlier faulted a July 15 U.S. travel advisory that warned citizens against visiting 18 Nigerian states, calling it alarmist and dismissive of the safety of major cities.

“We have our challenges, but many regions in Nigeria are safer than some U.S. cities,” a senior diplomat argued, pointing to America’s rising rates of gun violence.

Despite the strain, Nigerian officials reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining diplomatic relations with the U.S., but stressed the need for mutual respect.

“We value our partnership with the U.S.,” a presidential aide said, “but respect must be mutual. Our internal affairs are not open to foreign interference.”