A senior aide to President Bola Tinubu has drawn a direct link between recent security incidents in Nigeria and controversial remarks made by former United States President Donald Trump.
Trump's Threat and the Nigerian Fallout
Daniel Bwala, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, stated on Wednesday, December 3, that a notable escalation in attacks followed Trump's initial outburst. The former US leader had threatened to target Nigeria if its government "continues to allow the killing of Christians."
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television's The Morning Brief, Bwala outlined two prevailing theories for the persistent insecurity. The first links increased incidents to approaching election cycles. However, he pointed to a stronger, more immediate theory gaining traction.
"After Donald Trump’s initial outburst, we began to witness repeated security incidents," Bwala said. He suggested that some actors might be attempting to justify talk of potential foreign military intervention in Nigeria by creating a narrative of unchecked violence.
Government's Stance on Negotiations and Terror Financiers
In the same interview, Bwala firmly denied that the Federal Government negotiates with or pays ransoms to terrorists. He argued that such payments ultimately empower criminal groups by funding their weapons and operations.
Commenting on the release of abducted schoolchildren in the northern region, Bwala explained that several factors, including kidnappers' fear of exposure, can influence releases without monetary payment. He insisted the administration did not pay for the Kebbi schoolgirls' release and maintains a strict no-ransom policy.
Bwala also made a significant disclosure, stating that the Tinubu administration will soon unveil the identities of individuals and networks financing terrorism in the country. He said the government is taking "far-reaching decisions" on national security that will soon become evident to the public.
Defending Tinubu's Past Criticism
The presidential aide also defended President Tinubu's past criticism of former President Goodluck Jonathan during the 2014 Chibok girls' abduction. Bwala contended that the security situation under Jonathan was markedly worse, with terrorists allegedly controlling territories and collecting taxes from residents.
He reiterated that the current administration's focus remains squarely on resolving the nation's security challenges, asserting that "our eye is on the ball." The spokesman acknowledged the country is navigating a difficult period but emphasized the government's commitment to a non-negotiation stance while intensifying efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and their funding sources.
