In a dramatic escalation of diplomatic tensions, President Bola Tinubu's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has launched a scathing attack against United States Senator Ted Cruz, accusing the American lawmaker of conducting a "hatchet job" for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Diplomatic Crossfire Over Nigerian Affairs
The political firestorm erupted following Senator Cruz's recent statements concerning Nigeria's internal affairs, which Onanuga characterized as unwarranted foreign interference. The presidential aide did not mince words, describing the Texas senator's comments as inappropriate and demonstrating a concerning lack of understanding about Nigeria's complex political landscape.
"Senator Cruz has clearly overstepped his boundaries," Onanuga stated emphatically. "He appears to be doing the bidding of IPOB, an organization that has been legally designated as a terrorist group in Nigeria."
Questioning Motives and Allegiances
Onanuga raised serious questions about the senator's motivations, suggesting that Cruz might be receiving misleading information from questionable sources with vested interests in destabilizing Nigeria. The presidential aide expressed particular concern about what he perceives as foreign endorsement of separatist activities that threaten Nigeria's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The confrontation highlights the delicate balance Nigeria maintains in its international relationships, especially with key allies like the United States. Onanuga's forceful response signals the Tinubu administration's determination to push back against what it views as external attempts to influence Nigeria's domestic policies.
Broader Implications for Nigeria-US Relations
This diplomatic spat occurs against the backdrop of ongoing security challenges in Nigeria's Southeast region, where IPOB has been actively campaigning for separation. The Nigerian government has consistently maintained that IPOB's activities constitute a threat to national security, a position that Onanuga reinforced in his rebuttal to the American senator.
"We cannot and will not tolerate foreign legislators meddling in our internal matters, especially when they appear to be supporting organizations that undermine our national unity," Onanuga declared, emphasizing Nigeria's right to handle its affairs without external interference.
The exchange represents one of the most public confrontations between Nigerian officials and American politicians in recent times, potentially signaling a more assertive foreign policy approach from the Tinubu administration when it perceives Nigeria's interests are being challenged on the international stage.
