Ex-Texas Mayor Claims Tinubu Govt, DCI Group May Have Violated US FARA Law
Former Blanco, Texas mayor Mike Arnold alleges that Nigeria’s government pays DCI Group $750,000 each month under a contract filed with the US Department of Justice, intended to showcase its protection of Christian communities and its fight against jihadist groups. Arnold says the firm has strayed from that mandate by allegedly launching social media attacks on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, questioning his ability to obtain a US visa and mocking his travel documents.
He argues that such political activity, if not disclosed in the firm’s Foreign Agents Registration Act filing, could constitute a felony under US law. Arnold also points out that using public money to finance actions that undermine a political opponent may breach Nigeria’s Electoral Act, which bars state resources from supporting or hindering candidates. He notes that Atiku reportedly hired a separate Washington lobby for $1.2 million, with registration stating the firm worked on his behalf against the Nigerian government.
Arnold urges law‑enforcement agencies in both countries to scrutinise the contract and the firm’s public statements. The allegations raise concerns about transparency in foreign lobbying and the possible misuse of state funds to influence electoral competition.
Will Nigerian authorities investigate the alleged misuse of public funds, will Atiku pursue legal or diplomatic remedies, and should citizens demand full disclosure of lobbying contracts that could affect the 2027 presidential race?