The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Allied People’s Movement (APM) have rejected the Presidency’s portrayal of a letter from U.S. President Donald Trump to President Bola Tinubu as an endorsement of the administration, insisting it was merely routine diplomatic correspondence.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Allied People’s Movement (APM) have criticised the Presidency over its presentation of a recent letter from United States President Donald Trump to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, arguing that the correspondence should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the Federal Government’s performance.
The opposition parties said diplomatic exchanges between world leaders are a normal feature of international relations and should not be used as evidence of public approval or validation of an administration’s record.
ADC: Nigerians, Not Foreign Leaders, Will Judge Tinubu
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said no communication from a foreign president could determine the outcome of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election or substitute for the judgment of Nigerian voters.
According to the party, the Tinubu administration appeared more focused on celebrating international recognition than addressing pressing domestic challenges such as insecurity, inflation and the rising cost of living.
The party maintained that the President would ultimately be judged by Nigerians based on his performance in office rather than diplomatic exchanges with foreign leaders.
APM: Letter Praised Resolve, Not Security Achievements
The Allied People’s Movement (APM) also rejected the Presidency’s interpretation of the letter.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, the party argued that President Trump merely acknowledged Tinubu’s stated commitment to tackling insecurity and violence, particularly attacks affecting Christian communities.
According to the APM, the correspondence did not explicitly commend the Nigerian government for measurable achievements in reducing terrorism or improving security.
The party therefore accused the Presidency of giving the impression that the letter represented a formal endorsement of Tinubu’s security record.
Presidency Yet to Change Position
The Presidency has consistently maintained that the letter reflects growing cooperation between Nigeria and the United States on security matters.
Presidential aides have described the correspondence as evidence that Nigeria’s efforts against terrorism are receiving international recognition and have dismissed criticisms from opposition parties.
Political Debate Continues
The letter has generated sustained political debate since it was made public.
While the Presidency views it as recognition of Nigeria’s security efforts, opposition parties insist it should not be portrayed as an endorsement of the Tinubu administration.
As of the time of reporting, the White House has not issued any statement disputing the authenticity of the letter, nor has it publicly described it as a political endorsement of President Tinubu’s government.