Denial of False Social Media Post by WTO Director-General
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), has strongly denied a viral social media post that falsely attributed comments to her regarding Nigeria’s security challenges under President Bola Tinubu.
The post, which was widely shared on platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, claimed that Okonjo-Iweala criticized Nigerian leaders for their inaction against banditry and insurgency. It also stated that she urged Tinubu to “stop the damage control speeches” and focus on securing the people. However, Okonjo-Iweala clarified that these claims were entirely false and malicious.
In a statement posted on her verified X account, Okonjo-Iweala emphasized that the post was not from her and warned the public against believing or sharing the information. She further announced that legal action is being taken against those responsible for spreading the false narrative.
“Beware, this story going around on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook is false! We are taking action! The person who did this could not even spell my name,” she wrote.
Okonjo-Iweala also condemned the impersonation and called on the culprits to take responsibility instead of hiding behind her identity. She specifically addressed scammers and individuals involved in fraudulent activities, urging them to stop using her name for their schemes.
“Whichever coward did this should write the message in their own name and not hide behind mine or anyone else’s! Scammers and 419ers, stop!” she added.
International Attention on Nigeria’s Security Situation
The denial comes amid renewed international attention on Nigeria’s security situation, particularly after former U.S. President Donald Trump made controversial remarks about the country. On his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed that Christians were being targeted in Nigeria and warned that the United States might take direct military action if the alleged killings continue.
This comment sparked widespread criticism and prompted a formal response from President Tinubu and the Nigerian government. Tinubu reiterated that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and highlighted his administration’s efforts to work with leaders of all faiths to ensure peace and security.
He rejected portrayals of Nigeria as a religiously intolerant country, describing such claims as inaccurate and inconsistent with the nation’s diversity and unity. Tinubu also emphasized that Nigeria would continue to collaborate with the United States and other international partners to deepen mutual understanding and protect communities of all faiths.
Despite these assurances, Trump reiterated his stance on Wednesday, stating that the United States “cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening.” He pledged that his administration is “ready, willing and able to protect our great Christian population around the world.”