The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has issued a stern warning to opposition politicians regarding their recent efforts to lobby the United States government for the release of historical law enforcement records related to President Bola Tinubu. Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Agbese emphasized that such actions could severely tarnish Nigeria's international reputation, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

Agbese's comments come in response to lobbying activities in Washington aimed at drawing attention to allegations against Tinubu. He described these efforts as politically motivated and urged U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration to disregard the claims being made by opposition figures. The Benue lawmaker highlighted the potential harm that could be inflicted on Nigerians living, studying, and working abroad if their country is portrayed negatively on the international stage.

"When desperate politicians begin to export their political battles and package Nigeria as a country whose leadership is allegedly built around criminality, they are not hurting President Tinubu alone. They are damaging the image of every Nigerian who travels, studies, works, does business or seeks opportunities abroad," Agbese stated.

He called on the Trump administration to critically evaluate the motives behind the lobbying efforts, asserting that the relationship between Nigeria and the United States should be based on mutual interests, including security, trade, and investment, rather than being influenced by politically charged campaigns.

Agbese acknowledged that while opposition politicians have the right to critique the government, they should refrain from involving foreign entities in domestic political disputes. He cautioned that such actions could lead to far-reaching consequences for ordinary Nigerians, including negative impacts on business relationships and immigration decisions.

The Deputy Spokesperson also questioned the relevance of using decades-old documents from a civil forfeiture proceeding to frame Nigeria's current political leadership, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections. He urged politicians to consider the broader implications of their actions, stating, "Whoever wins an election will still inherit the same country, and whoever loses will remain a Nigerian."

Agbese's remarks follow a statement from the Presidency that dismissed the lobbying efforts as politically motivated. The Presidency criticized a Washington-based lobbying firm reportedly engaged by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, claiming that the initiative aimed to create political controversy ahead of the elections. The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, accused the firm of misrepresenting political claims as intelligence reports, which could mislead U.S. officials about Nigeria's political situation.

As political tensions rise in the lead-up to the elections, Agbese reiterated the commitment of the House of Representatives to defend Nigeria's national interests and urged political actors to resolve their differences through democratic and judicial means, rather than risking the country's international standing for short-term political gains.