A U.S.-based Nigerian advocacy group has issued a strong warning to American lawmaker Kimberly Daniels, threatening legal action over remarks linking the Sultan of Sokoto to Nigeria’s ongoing insecurity challenges.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Monitoring Group, USA (NDMG-USA), described the comments as “deeply offensive, unsubstantiated, and diplomatically reckless,” insisting that failure to retract the statements could lead to court action in the United States.
Daniels, who represents District 14 in the Florida House of Representatives, had publicly called on President Bola Tinubu to remove the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. She also made allegations suggesting the Sultan’s involvement in insecurity in northern Nigeria—claims that have sparked outrage among Nigerians at home and abroad.
In a statement signed by its U.S. president, Cosmas Collins, the group strongly condemned what it termed a “direct and unjustified attack” on the Sultan, emphasizing his long-standing role as a voice of peace, unity, and religious harmony.
“The Sultan of Sokoto remains a symbol of moral authority whose influence has consistently promoted dialogue and national cohesion,” Collins said. “Accusing him without credible evidence is not only defamatory but also an insult to millions who respect the institution he represents.”
NDMG-USA warned that such allegations risk damaging Nigeria’s global image and could heighten tensions both locally and internationally. The group stressed that while concerns about Nigeria’s security situation are valid, public commentary—especially from foreign officials—must be rooted in facts and a nuanced understanding of the country’s realities.
“Security challenges in Nigeria are complex and cannot be reduced to sensational claims targeting respected figures,” Collins added. “The Sultan has consistently advocated for peace and conflict resolution, and his contributions should not be distorted.”
The group also called on international partners to adopt a more responsible and constructive approach when addressing Nigeria’s internal issues, urging restraint and accuracy in public statements.
Reaffirming its stance, NDMG-USA said it remains committed to defending Nigeria’s reputation globally while promoting balanced and truthful discourse around the nation’s security concerns.
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