Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, is facing fresh controversy after a United States lawmaker accused him of attempting to influence a report on Nigeria through an alleged bribery attempt.

The allegation was made by Kimberly Daniels, who in a widely circulated video claimed that Matawalle sought to offer inducements to an American official in order to shape narratives around reported killings in Nigeria, particularly those involving Christian communities.

Daniels alleged that the purported move was aimed at influencing how international observers interpret Nigeria’s security situation. She also claimed she faced pressure and attempts to discredit her after speaking publicly on the matter.

The claims have triggered widespread discussion across social and political platforms, but no evidence has been presented publicly to support the allegation. There has also been no indication that any official investigation has been launched by US authorities.

The Nigerian government has not issued a formal response to the allegation as of the time of reporting, leaving the matter unresolved amid growing public attention.

Daniels had previously called for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remove Matawalle from office, citing concerns over insecurity and governance issues in the country.

The development adds to ongoing debates about Nigeria’s security challenges and how they are portrayed in international discourse, particularly regarding allegations linked to religiously motivated violence.

Erizia Rubyjeana