US Won’t Arrest Nigerian President Tinubu, Adviser Says
Tinubu’s senior special assistant Ademola Oshodi denied claims the U.S. could arrest the Nigerian president

In Brief
- •Tinubu’s senior special assistant Ademola Oshodi denied claims the U.S. could arrest the Nigerian president
- •Oshodi cited former leaders Muammar Gaddafi, Fidel Castro and Ayatollah Khomeini as examples of heads of state who visited the U.S. without arrest
- •He confirmed Tinubu will not attend the 81st UN General Assembly in New York in person
- •Oshodi called the arrest rumors “pure nonsense” and politically motivated, especially during the election season
Why It Matters
The statement underscores the principle of head‑of‑state immunity that the United States has historically upheld, even when leaders have had contentious relations with the U.S. It also highlights how political narratives can be amplified during election periods, potentially influencing public perception and diplomatic relations. Understanding this context is vital for stakeholders monitoring Nigeria’s political climate and U.S. foreign policy toward emerging leaders.
Key Details
- US Arrest Policy on Heads of State
- No arrest for sitting heads of state
- Tinubu UNGA Attendance
- Will not attend in person
- Examples Cited
- Gaddafi, Castro, Khomeini
- Source
- Channels Television Sunday Politics interview
Context & Background
The United States has a long-standing practice of not arresting sitting heads of state, even when they have visited or had dealings with the U.S. This policy is reflected in the U.S. response to claims about potential arrests of foreign leaders.
Original Reporting & Sources
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