Ex-Tinubu campaign director claims Nigeria has lost independence as U.S. influence deepens
Former campaign director to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Hajiya Naja’atu Mohammed, has stirred controversy after alleging that former United States President Donald Trump is now effectively ruling Nigeria, warning that the country is undergoing a fresh phase of “recolonisation.”
Speaking during an interview on an Arewa-based media platform, Naja’atu accused the Nigerian government of surrendering the nation’s sovereignty to foreign powers, particularly the United States.
According to her, recent developments in Nigeria’s security and foreign relations indicate that decisions affecting the country are no longer being taken independently by its elected leaders.
“Nigeria is no longer being governed by Nigerians. Donald Trump is now ruling Nigeria. What we are witnessing is a clear case of recolonisation,” she said.
Concerns Over Foreign Military Involvement
Naja’atu cited reported U.S.-backed airstrikes on militant camps in parts of northern Nigeria as evidence of what she described as excessive foreign interference in the country’s internal affairs.
She questioned why a sovereign nation would allow foreign forces to carry out military operations on its soil, warning that such actions undermine Nigeria’s independence and constitutional authority.
Criticism of Tinubu Administration
The former Tinubu ally also criticised the current administration for what she described as a failure to protect Nigeria’s dignity on the global stage. She argued that the government’s silence and cooperation with foreign powers have emboldened external actors to treat Nigeria as a dependent state rather than an equal partner.
Naja’atu, who was once a vocal supporter of Tinubu during the election campaign, has in recent months become one of his most outspoken critics, frequently condemning government policies and leadership style.
Government Yet to Respond
As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency and relevant security agencies have not issued an official response to Naja’atu’s remarks.
The comments have since sparked intense debate across social media platforms, with Nigerians divided over claims of foreign control, national sovereignty, and the government’s handling of security partnerships.
