Fani-Kayode fires back, denies Germany snub over ambassadorial posting

Fani-Kayode fires back, denies Germany snub over ambassadorial posting

 

Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has strongly refuted reports alleging that his ambassadorial nomination was turned down by the German government, describing the claims as false and politically motivated.

An online publication, Peoples Gazette, had earlier reported that German authorities declined his posting over concerns tied to alleged ethnic and religious remarks, as well as what it described as a “controversial track record.”

The report claimed the decision was taken on March 13, 2026, citing unnamed officials who reportedly raised issues about his “erratic behaviour” and past comments deemed divisive and potentially destabilising. It further suggested that the former minister could be reassigned to another country, possibly South Africa.

Bola Tinubu had previously approved Fani-Kayode’s nomination as an ambassador-designate to a Central European nation, as part of broader diplomatic postings.

Reacting swiftly via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Fani-Kayode dismissed the claims as “fake news,” insisting that no such rejection had occurred. He accused unnamed opposition figures of orchestrating a smear campaign aimed at derailing his appointment.

According to him, critics unsettled by his nomination are actively pushing narratives to discredit him and frustrate the process.

“Fake news everywhere. These opposition elements are so pained by my appointment, and they are doing everything to discredit me and scuttle it,” he wrote, adding, “Whether they like it or not, I will serve my country.”

The development adds a fresh layer of controversy to Nigeria’s ongoing ambassadorial appointments, with official clarification from the Federal Government or German authorities yet to be issued.