Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has renewed his call for the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to release records concerning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that can legally be disclosed to the public.
Atiku, who is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 election, made the demand through a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu. He was reacting to the FBI’s reported position that releasing some of the records could create risks to individuals or reveal sensitive law-enforcement information.
The former vice president argued that protecting confidential sources and investigative methods should not prevent the disclosure of information that can lawfully be made public. He suggested that sensitive portions could be redacted while other relevant records are released.
Atiku said Nigerians have a legitimate interest in information concerning the background of individuals who occupy the highest political offices in the country, particularly as the 2027 presidential election approaches.
“The FBI says disclosure could endanger lives. Which lives? Nigerians are already dying,” Atiku said, according to reports.
He also connected the controversy to broader concerns over economic hardship and insecurity in Nigeria, criticising policies implemented by the Tinubu administration.
Atiku maintained that his request should not be interpreted as an attempt to interfere with US law enforcement or Nigeria’s political process. Rather, he described it as a demand for transparency and access to information that is legally available.
The issue has attracted renewed attention because US authorities are currently involved in legal proceedings concerning the disclosure of records linked to an earlier investigation involving Tinubu. The FBI has sought to keep some material from public disclosure, citing concerns including investigative methods and the safety of individuals.
The controversy is significant ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election, with Atiku emerging as one of the prominent opposition figures challenging Tinubu’s administration. The dispute also highlights the tension between the public’s interest in transparency and the legal obligation of law-enforcement agencies to protect confidential information.
Ultimately, any decision on the release of the disputed records will rest with the relevant US authorities and courts, subject to applicable American laws governing classified, confidential and investigative material.
