Insecurity: Nigerians in Diaspora threaten lawsuit against US lawmaker, Kimberly Daniels
Nigerians in Diaspora Monitoring Group Threatens Legal Action Against Lawmaker
The United States chapter of the Nigerians in Diaspora Monitoring Group (NDMG-USA) has issued a legal warning to Florida lawmaker Kimberly Daniels regarding her recent statements implicating the Sultan of Sokoto in Nigeria’s ongoing security crisis. Daniels, a Democratic representative for District 14, has called for the removal of Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle while alleging the Sultan’s involvement in the matter.
In a statement released Saturday and signed by group president Cosmas Collins, the NDMG-USA described Daniels’ remarks as “deeply offensive, unsubstantiated, and diplomatically reckless.” The organization has indicated it will pursue legal action in the U.S. if Daniels does not retract her statements.
Collins emphasized that the group is particularly concerned about what it considers an “unjustified attack” on the Sultan, who is viewed as a vital figure in fostering peace and religious harmony in Nigeria. He stated, “The Sultan of Sokoto is a symbol of unity and moral authority whose voice is consistently used for peace and national cohesion. To allege complicity in insecurity without credible evidence is not only defamatory but an affront to millions of Nigerians.”
The NDMG-USA expressed concerns that such allegations could harm Nigeria’s international image and exacerbate local and global tensions. “These statements are false, damaging, and unacceptable,” Collins added, asserting that the organization is ready to take legal action if a full retraction and apology are not forthcoming.
While acknowledging the international concern surrounding Nigeria’s security issues, Collins urged that public statements by foreign officials should be anchored in factual accuracy and a comprehensive understanding of the country’s complexities. “Security challenges in Nigeria are multifaceted and require collaboration, not sensational claims that misrepresent realities,” he remarked.
The group has called on foreign lawmakers to exercise caution and prioritize constructive dialogue. “We urge international partners to approach Nigeria’s internal challenges with respect and accuracy. Mischaracterizations of key national figures do not contribute to effective solutions,” Collins said.
NDMG-USA reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s reputation on the world stage and promoting responsible discourse regarding the nation’s security situation.
