Former Nigerian aviation minister Femi Fani-Kayode attacks a US-based lobbying and public relations firm, saying his email and social media accounts are flooded with what he calls “hogwash” about President Bola Tinubu. He made the claims in a statement posted to his verified X account on Tuesday, targeting Karl Ikemefuna Von Batten and Von Batten-Montague-York L.C.
Fani-Kayode argues the firm is advancing false or misleading narratives, including allegations he says portray Tinubu as a criminal without a conviction. He also rejects claims that Tinubu tried to bribe Von Batten with $3 million, calling the allegation baseless and challenging the firm to provide evidence. He further alleges Von Batten was hired by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for $1.2 million to lobby against Tinubu, describing any efforts as futile.
While both outlets describe the confrontation as a response to foreign lobbying and related claims, the emphasis differs: one frames it broadly as an “anti-Tinubu campaign,” and the other spotlights “drug” allegations and urges the firm to “stop the lies.” Fani-Kayode also expresses confidence that US court processes—if any disclosure cases proceed—would be handled by the judiciary.
