Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said that the United States government is reducing its embassy staff, especially in Nigeria, over fears of possible attacks by Iran.
Mr Akpabio also said the adjustment in diplomatic staffing levels should not be linked to Nigeria’s current political environment, arguing that such decisions are usually driven by global security considerations.
He spoke on Tuesday at the inauguration of the National Assembly Service Commission’s new headquarters in Abuja, explaining that several countries are currently reassessing their overseas diplomatic footprint amid rising security threats across regions.
“Some say that even now, some embassies are closing down. Not many embassies are closing down. Many of the embassies are afraid of the repercussions from their foes,” he said.
Akpabio added, “For instance, I can say that America is a bit worried about the bomb blast from Iran, and so across the world, they have to reduce their staff in case Iran decides to attack their embassies.
“When people are thinking, oh! Nigeria’s embassies are closing because an election is coming. It’s not because the election is coming.
“Election will come and go, and God will protect you. God will protect Nigeria. Nigeria will outlive this election.”
His remarks come barely a week after the U.S. State Department authorised non-emergency government employees and family members to evacuate its embassy in Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria.
In its advisory, the U.S. explained that “there is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Nigeria.
“Terrorists continue plotting and carrying out attacks in Nigeria. Terrorists collaborate with local gangs to expand their reach.”
But the Nigerian government quickly dismissed the concerns, describing the U.S. advisory as a routine precaution rather than a reflection of Nigeria’s overall security situation.
