UNGA 81: US didn’t arrest Gaddafi, Castro, Ayatollah Khomeini – Tinubu’s aide
President Bola Tinubu’s Senior Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs and Protocol, Ademola Oshodi, has refuted allegations that the United States is considering arresting the Nigerian leader, labeling these claims as “pure nonsense” and politically motivated.
Oshodi made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s “Sunday Politics.” His comments followed the announcement from the Presidency that Tinubu will not attend the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
Oshodi argued that the U.S. has a history of maintaining diplomatic relations with sitting leaders despite differing political views. He cited examples such as former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, former Cuban leader Fidel Castro, and Iran’s Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, all of whom engaged with the U.S. at various times.
“There is absolutely no impediment,” Oshodi said. “This election season is a silly season of people making statements for electoral advantage. It is that simple.”
He reiterated that the U.S. would not arrest sitting heads of state, emphasizing that past leaders, including Tinubu, have visited the country without incident.
“Muammar Gaddafi, Castro, and Khomeini—there are many people who have touched down at the United Nations without issues,” he stated. “President Bola Tinubu has been in America; I accompanied him twice, and I handled various matters prior to his presidency. This is pure nonsense, and it’s politics.”
