ABUJA — Former presidential adviser Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed has issued a stinging rebuke of the United States’ military actions in Iran, warning that Nigeria’s national sovereignty is being dangerously compromised by foreign interference.
Speaking in a televised interview following reports that a joint U.S.-Israeli operation targeted Iran’s Supreme Leader, Baba-Ahmed declared that Nigeria must take a hardline stance against Washington’s growing influence.
“What You’ve Done is Condemnable”
Dr. Baba-Ahmed, who recently served as a Special Adviser in the Presidency, did not mince words regarding the latest escalation in the Middle East.
“We should tell the United States that its actions in Iran are unacceptable, and that Nigeria will no longer tolerate any further American involvement in our affairs,” he stated. He argued that the U.S. strategy appears focused on forced “regime change,” a move he predicts will trigger global chaos and a prolonged security crisis.
Sovereignty Under Threat
The elder statesman expressed deep concern that Nigeria’s internal security is being outsourced to foreign powers, undermining the nation’s independence.
- Military Autonomy: He criticized the direct involvement of the U.S. in military operations on Nigerian soil, suggesting it “humiliates” the Nigerian armed forces and diminishes their constitutional role.
- A “Handed Over” Nation: Baba-Ahmed alleged that the current administration has virtually surrendered Nigeria’s right to self-defense to Washington, warning that “Nigeria too is in trouble” due to these shifting dynamics.
Critique of Presidential Silence
Baba-Ahmed also took aim at President Bola Tinubu’s response—or lack thereof—to the recent international developments and reported U.S.-backed airstrikes in Nigeria’s North West.
“If President Tinubu truly has competent advisers, he should have addressed the nation by now,” he remarked. He further cautioned against any planned presidential visit to meet U.S. President Donald Trump at this sensitive moment, calling it a potential blow to Nigeria’s international standing.
Abuja on High Alert
His comments coincide with a heightened security lockdown in the Federal Capital Territory.
- Protest Fears: The U.S. Embassy cancelled all visa appointments on Wednesday, March 4, advising its citizens to stay indoors due to a “high potential for protests” tied to the Iran conflict.
- Military Presence: Armed soldiers and police have been heavily deployed to diplomatic zones and government buildings across Abuja to prevent potential unrest.
While the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially called for “maximum restraint” and dialogue, it has notably avoided the confrontational tone adopted by Baba-Ahmed.
