‘It Can Be Charged As Felony’ — Mike Arnold Accuses Tinubu, DCI Group Of Violating US Law

Former Blanco Mayor Mike Arnold has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration and Washington-based DCI Group of allegedly violating United States law in connection with a lobbying and online influence campaign.

Arnold, a United States-based activist and founder of Africa Arise International, made the allegation while discussing what he described as efforts to target critics of the Nigerian government.

He alleged that an X account identified as @SecureNigeriaHQ was being operated as part of a campaign connected to DCI Group and aimed at countering criticism of Tinubu’s administration.

According to Arnold, the activities could raise questions under US laws governing foreign influence, lobbying and disclosure requirements.

He argued that if individuals or organisations were acting on behalf of a foreign government without properly complying with applicable registration and disclosure obligations, such conduct could expose them to legal consequences.

Arnold specifically warned that certain alleged violations could potentially be treated as felonies under US law, depending on the evidence and circumstances involved.

He also alleged that the campaign had focused on him and other individuals critical of the Nigerian government, including attempts to question their funding, political affiliations and activities.

Arnold claimed the operation was part of a wider effort to shape perceptions of Nigeria in Washington and counter narratives considered damaging to the Tinubu administration.

The allegations come amid increasing scrutiny of Nigeria’s lobbying activities in the United States, particularly as the government seeks to strengthen its relationship with American policymakers and influence discussions concerning Nigeria’s security, economy and international reputation.

Arnold has also been vocal about the controversy surrounding US government records relating to Tinubu and investigations from the early 1990s. He has repeatedly called for the release of records that remain withheld by US authorities.

The latest allegations, however, concern a separate issue involving political lobbying and alleged online activities.

The accusations have not been established as criminal findings against Tinubu, DCI Group or any other individual mentioned in connection with the claims.

Under US law, whether conduct amounts to a criminal offence depends on the specific activities involved, the applicable registration and disclosure requirements, and evidence establishing the necessary elements of an offence.

Arnold maintained that the alleged activities should be subjected to appropriate scrutiny by US authorities.

He said transparency was particularly important when foreign governments or their representatives engage American lobbying firms or influence operations to shape public and political discourse.

The controversy comes as political tensions surrounding Tinubu’s administration continue to extend beyond Nigeria, with activists, political opponents and government supporters increasingly engaging in international advocacy and public relations campaigns.

Arnold urged US authorities and lawmakers to examine the alleged activities and determine whether they complied with American laws governing foreign influence and lobbying.