Fani-Kayode denies Tinubu drug smuggling claims, cites 2003 FBI check showing no record
Femi Fani-Kayode has published a rebuttal in Premium Times denying allegations that President Bola Tinubu was involved in drug smuggling in America. The former minister states that claims of Tinubu being smuggling drugs, indicted, or convicted for drug smuggling in the US are false.
Fani-Kayode cites a 2003 FBI NCIC check conducted through the American Consulate in Nigeria, which showed "negative for any criminal arrest records, wants, or warrants" for Tinubu. He argues this is incompatible with claims of arrest, indictment, or conviction.
The article accuses Karl Von Batten (also referred to as Ikemefuna Okeke) of spreading these falsehoods after being paid $1.2 million by Atiku to "diminish, discredit and destroy President Tinubu." Fani-Kayode also attacks Von Batten's credibility, alleging he uses multiple names, falsely claims educational qualifications, and changed his name to imply German ancestry.
As a former Minister of Culture and Tourism and Aviation under Obasanjo, Fani-Kayode frames his response as part of his role exposing "liars and fraudsters" who smear Nigeria's government. He states he operates within the law and will continue engaging such figures through proper channels.
For Nigerian readers following political discourse, this exchange highlights the intensity of political rhetoric and the specific evidence being invoked in debates about Tinubu's background. The rebuttal relies on the 2003 FBI check as key documentation countering long-standing allegations.
When evaluating such claims, consider the credibility of sources making allegations, verify referenced documentation like the FBI check through official channels, and recognize how personal attacks often accompany political rebuttals in Nigeria's public discourse.