A pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for reckless spending and misplaced priorities, following reports that Nigeria paid $9 million to a U.S.-based Republican lobbying firm while insecurity continues to devastate the country.

In a statement signed by Convener Olusola Badero and released via Home Director Princess Balogun, the union accused the government of prioritizing “foreign image laundering” and second-term political calculations over the safety and welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

The group questioned why funds were allegedly paid to the lobbying firm DCI Group, via Kaduna-based Aster Legal, to persuade the U.S. government that Nigeria is addressing insecurity—despite widespread killings, kidnappings, and terrorist attacks across almost all 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

“Instead of confronting insecurity head-on, the Tinubu government is busy spending huge sums on foreign lobbyists to present a false image abroad,” the union said. “Meanwhile, Nigerians continue to suffer daily from violence, economic hardship, and poor governance.”

According to Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, the contract reportedly involved an initial $4.5 million paid on December 12, 2025, covering a six-month retainer, with another $4.5 million due by July 2026—making it one of the most expensive lobbying contracts ever signed by an African government.

The union also accused the government of granting amnesty to terrorists, leaving citizens unprotected, and neglecting the state’s fundamental duties to maintain security. They called on Nigerians to hold the administration accountable and urged international authorities, including U.S. officials, to scrutinize the contract.

“The $9 million could have been used to strengthen local security operations, support victims of terrorism, rebuild destroyed communities, and improve social services,” the group said, emphasizing that citizen safety must take precedence over international image management.

Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá concluded by demanding urgent action, transparency, and accountability from the government, warning that continued neglect could deepen public frustration and erode trust in leadership.