FBI, DEA Say Tinubu Records Not Ready for Release, Cite Privacy, National Security
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have informed a U.S. court that records concerning Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are not yet ready for public release, citing issues of personal privacy and national security.
This comes in response to a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request filed by U.S. transparency advocate Aaron Greenspan, who sought access to any documents or case files related to President Tinubu.
The request drew renewed interest following past controversies surrounding a 1993 U.S. civil forfeiture case in which Tinubu forfeited $460,000 to the U.S. government amid allegations of ties to a drug trafficking ring—though no criminal charges were ever filed.
Privacy and Security Cited
In legal filings, both the FBI and DEA invoked FOIA exemptions that allow them to neither confirm nor deny the existence of any records. This legal stance, known as a “Glomar response,” is often used in cases where confirming or denying a request could reveal sensitive or protected information.
The agencies argued that releasing such records—if they exist—could constitute a violation of Tinubu’s privacy, as it might associate him with law enforcement activity without due process.
They further emphasized that any disclosure could compromise ongoing intelligence matters or diplomatic relations, and potentially impact U.S. national security.
CIA Also Withholds Records
The CIA separately echoed these concerns in its own filing, warning that any release of documents connected to Tinubu might expose confidential sources, methods, or intelligence information. The agency stressed that even acknowledging the existence of such records could be detrimental.
Legal Battle Continues
Aaron Greenspan, founder of the transparency organization PlainSite, has criticized the agencies’ decision, arguing that there is a strong public interest in disclosing any past criminal or investigative links involving a sitting foreign head of state. He contends that transparency is critical, especially as Tinubu holds one of Africa’s most influential political positions.
However, U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell denied an emergency motion to compel the release of the records, stating that Greenspan had not proven that withholding the information would cause irreparable harm.
President Tinubu has also taken legal action in the U.S. to block the potential release of records, arguing that such documents—if disclosed—could unfairly tarnish his reputation and interfere with Nigeria’s governance.
Background
In 1993, Tinubu was linked to a U.S. investigation involving heroin trafficking in Chicago, but he was never charged. The case culminated in a civil asset forfeiture, with Tinubu forfeiting $460,000 to U.S. authorities. The incident has since remained a point of controversy, particularly during his 2023 presidential campaign.
The debate continues to raise questions about accountability, international diplomacy, and the legal limits of public access to government-held records.
