Mike Arnold, an American missionary and human rights advocate, criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recent ambassadorial choices. He called them a “big mistake.” Arnold believes these nominations could harm Nigeria’s relationship with the new Trump administration.
Arnold, a former mayor from Texas, has campaigned against religious violence in Nigeria for ten years. He delivered this warning from Capitol Hill. There, he actively lobbies important lawmakers.
Arnold shared his views on his X account. This criticism arrives at a crucial time. Donald Trump is expected to return to the White House. US Congress members are reassessing America’s Africa strategy. Nigeria’s widespread insecurity faces intense scrutiny.
Kidnappings, forced displacements, and ethnic conflicts trouble Nigeria. These issues cause bipartisan concern in Washington.
Concerns Mount After Capitol Hill Discussions
Arnold recently concluded private meetings. He spoke with influential congressmen. They are developing Trump’s Nigeria policy. Arnold presented a bleak outlook.
“Lawmakers are rightly skeptical of Tinubu’s commitment to ending violence,” Arnold stated. He added that these appointments appear to be a cover-up, not a reform effort.
The controversial nominees include Reno Omokri and Femi Fani-Kayode. Omokri is a prominent social media figure and former presidential aide. Fani-Kayode is an ex-aviation minister.
Both men are accused of downplaying violence against Christians. They also face claims of changing political allegiances for personal benefit. Omokri previously criticized Tinubu. Now, he offers lavish praise. Arnold labels this “pathological flip-flopping.”
Poor Strategy Risks International Isolation
Arnold spoke plainly about Tinubu’s decisions. He posted, “Appointing dishonest individuals simply for denying atrocities suggests an intent to cover up and divert attention.”
“Tinubu lacks awareness,” Arnold asserted. “He fails to grasp the intense scrutiny facing these nominations.”
Arnold has publicly debated Omokri on “genocide denial.” He strongly urged Nigeria’s Senate to reject the nominated individuals. He warned that this signals to young people that success means “selling your soul.” This erodes national integrity.
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