The Big Tent Coalition, headed by Professor Pat Utomi, has sharply criticised the Nigerian Federal Government for what it described as hypocrisy, incoherence, and a lack of strategic clarity in handling the recent U.S. airstrikes against ISIS-linked terrorists in North-West Nigeria.
The strikes, carried out by the Nigerian Armed Forces in collaboration with the United States, targeted identified ISIS-linked elements in Sokoto State. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the operation nearly 24 hours after it took place.
Government’s Contradictions Highlighted
The coalition noted a glaring contradiction in government actions. Just last month, the Presidency, through Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, condemned Peter Obi for suggesting he would welcome U.S. military assistance if it improved national security.
Mr. Onanuga had warned that Nigerians would “never forget nor forgive” Mr. Obi for such statements.
Today, the same administration has endorsed and confirmed actual foreign military action on Nigerian soil.
Call for Apology to Peter Obi
Charles Odibo, Director of Media and Communication for the Big Tent Coalition, said: “The Tinubu administration owes Peter Obi an immediate and unreserved apology.
“You cannot vilify a prominent citizen for expressing a conditional policy opinion, only to turn around and implement that very option in practice. This flip-flop exposes a government that lacks clarity, coordination, and credibility in its approach to national security.”
Concerns Over Communication and Transparency
The coalition expressed concern over the Federal Government’s delayed and fragmented communication regarding the airstrikes.
While U.S. President Donald Trump publicly announced the operation, Nigerians had to wait nearly a full day to receive confirmation from multiple government sources.
Odibo questioned why, if Nigeria engaged in “structured security cooperation” with the U.S., the Presidency chose silence. He also criticised the inconsistent messaging from government officials and the politicisation of patriotic commentary.
Demand for Leadership and Clarity
The Big Tent Coalition urged President Bola Tinubu to ensure a formal apology is issued to Peter Obi, enforce discipline and coherence in government communications on national security, and personally brief Nigerians on foreign security partnerships.
“The security of Nigeria is too serious for propaganda, knee-jerk attacks, and posturing. Leadership demands consistency, humility, and honesty with the Nigerian people,” Odibo added.