Several prominent Nigerians have opposed the deployment of United States soldiers to Nigeria, warning that it raises constitutional and sovereignty concerns despite official assurances that the mission is limited to advisory and training roles.
United States military aircraft began landing in Nigeria last week after American and Nigerian officials disclosed that about 200 US soldiers would be deployed in advisory and training capacities. US officials said the aircraft movements would continue over the coming weeks as part of a temporary mission supporting targeted counterterrorism efforts. However, Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ) maintained that the US personnel are technical specialists serving strictly in non-combat roles and that all activities would be carried out under the authority and control of the Nigerian government in coordination with the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
In a joint statement titled “No to Foreign Forces in Our Land: Defend Our Sovereignty”, the group said the presence of US soldiers in Nigeria raises serious constitutional and sovereignty concerns. The statement was signed by Femi Falana (SAN), Jibrin Ibrahim, Dr Abubakar Siddique Mohammed, Dr Dauda Garuba, Prof Massaud Omar, Prof Mohammed Kuna, Engr YZ Ya’u, and Dr Usman Bugaje.
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