Okonjo-Iweala Denies Fake Post Criticizing Tinubu As Trump Threatens Military Action In Nigeria
World Trade Organization Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has disavowed a viral social media post falsely attributed to her that criticized President Bola Tinubu’s handling of insecurity in Nigeria. The post, widely shared under the headline “Trump didn’t ‘hit’ us – our leaders did,” falsely claimed that Okonjo-Iweala accused Nigerian leaders of prioritizing speeches over action in addressing banditry and insurgency. It also allegedly urged Tinubu to “stop the damage control speeches” and “secure the people.” Responding via her verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, Okonjo-Iweala labeled the message as fake and malicious, warning the public not to believe or share it. She said legal action is being pursued against those behind the impersonation. “Beware, this story going around on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook is false! We are taking action! The person who did this could not even spell my name,” she wrote, adding: “Whichever coward did this should write the message in their own name and not hide behind mine or anyone else’s! Scammers and 419ers, stop!” Her clarification comes amid renewed controversy following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent claims that Christians in Nigeria are under attack. Trump warned on his Truth Social platform that the United States could intervene militarily, “guns blazing,” if the alleged violence continued. President Tinubu and the Nigerian government quickly rejected the claims of religious persecution. Tinubu stressed that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and that his administration actively works with leaders of all faiths to maintain peace and security. He also dismissed foreign portrayals of Nigeria as intolerant, emphasizing the country’s diversity and unity. Despite these reassurances, Trump reiterated his willingness to take direct action if the alleged persecution persisted. He also called on U.S. lawmakers, including Congressman Riley Moore and House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole, to investigate the situation and report back.
