Nigerian journalist and social commentator Kemi Olunloyo has made a series of new allegations concerning security leadership changes in Nigeria, U.S. cooperation with Abuja, and internal political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.
In posts published on her platforms, Olunloyo alleged that President Bola Tinubu removed former Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru, disputing earlier narratives suggesting a medical resignation. She further claimed that former ministers Hadiza Bala Usman and Bello Matawalle were retained in roles despite opposition from National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
Olunloyo also asserted that the United States is reluctant to fully collaborate with Nigeria on security matters until certain officials—including Matawalle—are removed. According to her, this alleged strain has contributed to ongoing insecurity and kidnapping incidents. None of these claims have been verified by U.S. or Nigerian authorities.
She added that the appointment of CG Musa did not “please Washington,” claiming this had no connection to religious identity but to deeper security concerns. Olunloyo alleged that senior officials “know the individuals behind terrorism and attacks on Christian communities,” and accused the Nigerian media of failing to report these issues.
Referencing her field coverage in Yelwatta, Otukpo, and Logo, she claimed that as Chief of Defence Staff, Musa “knew the perpetrators” of several Benue attacks—another assertion that has not been substantiated by security agencies.
Olunloyo also commented on NSA Ribadu’s recent meeting with U.S. Secretary Pete Hegseth, alleging undisclosed discussions and suggesting that Nigerian authorities instructed domestic media not to report certain aspects. She further claimed that there are internal political tensions ahead of 2027, warning of what she described as a “looming power struggle.”
Additionally, she referenced U.S. Congressman Riley Moore, stating that he secretly met with Catholic clergy in Nigeria before holding private engagements with a Nigerian delegation in Washington. These meetings have not been publicly confirmed.
Olunloyo emphasized that her statements should not be considered national secrets but “suppressed information,” encouraging Nigerians to review her past 2024 video reports on YouTube.
