The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria is irresponsible - By Owei Lakemfa

The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Michael Freeman declared during an Arise Television interview on March 6, 2026 that t...

The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Michael Freeman declared during an Arise Television interview on March 6, 2026 that terrorists in many parts of the world including Nigeria are sponsored by Iran.

 He claimed without providing any proof that: “Nigeria has been at the receiving end of terrorism from Iran” Freeman cited the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, the umbrella organization of Shittes in Nigeria, as the terrorist group in the country: “being sponsored and backed by the Iranian regime.”

These are grossly irresponsible statements as Nigeria has no problems with Muslims or Shiites. Also, in Nigeria, only the courts can declare any group terrorist not a flippant foreigner abusing the privilege of being given air time.

 Equally, it is highly presumptuous of the Israeli ambassador to assume he can appoint the friends and enemies of Nigerians. Our memories are not so short as not to recall that while Israel supplied arms to the Apartheid regime in South Africa to kill liberation fighters and invade African countries, Iran stood solidly by Africa and the liberation movements. 

Mr. Freeman must not be allowed to spread the madness in the Middle East to Nigeria or Africa. The Foreign Ministry should invite the Israeli ambassador and caution him.

 Also, the Tinubu administration should be mindful of the company it keeps; it needs to distance itself from people like Mr. Freeman who advertise secret collaboration with it.