Yoruba leader Malaolu condemns ex-leaders' silence on Tinubu's alleged US drug links
Yoruba leader Akin Malaolu has criticized the silence of former Nigerian presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan and Abdulsalami Abubakar, along with figures like Chief Emeka Anyaoku and Professor Wole Soyinka, regarding allegations about President Bola Tinubu's past in the United States. Malaolu made these comments in a statement on Sunday, September 6, 2026, arguing that Nigerians have the right to know details of any foreign law-enforcement investigations involving their president.
The development comes amid renewed calls for the Federal Bureau of Investigation to release records related to Tinubu, with Washington-based lobbyist Karl Von Batten advocating for transparency. Malaolu emphasized that as President, Tinubu is not a private citizen, and questions from documented criminal investigations by agencies like the FBI directly impact Nigeria's transparency, integrity and international standing. He questioned why those who have traditionally presented themselves as the nation's conscience remain silent on this matter.
According to DAILY POST, the controversy surrounds Tinubu's alleged historical connections in the US, though the article notes he has immunity from arrest during UNGA per Nigeria's UN representative. Malaolu stated 'The time for silence is over. The time to act is now,' calling on respected Nigerians who have spoken out on democracy and institutions to address this issue. Do you believe former Nigerian leaders have a responsibility to speak up on allegations affecting the president's integrity, or should such matters be left to official investigations?