The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has cautioned opposition politicians against what he described as efforts to damage Nigeria’s image in pursuit of political advantage ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Agbese spoke to journalists in Abuja on Thursday while reacting to lobbying activities in the United States concerning historical US law enforcement records relating to President Bola Tinubu.

The Benue lawmaker urged US President Donald Trump and his administration to disregard what he described as politically motivated lobbying aimed at drawing attention to allegations concerning Tinubu.

He argued that political disagreements should not be taken beyond Nigeria’s borders in ways that could affect the country’s reputation or the interests of Nigerians living and working abroad.

Agbese said attempts to portray Nigeria as a country whose leadership was associated with criminality could have consequences beyond the political arena.

He warned that such narratives could affect Nigerians who travel, study, work, conduct businesses or seek opportunities outside the country.

The lawmaker urged opposition politicians to pursue their political disagreements through democratic and constitutional channels rather than what he described as international campaigns against Nigeria.

Agbese’s comments come as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition groups and the governing All Progressives Congress stepping up their mobilisation.

He maintained that political competition should not come at the expense of Nigeria’s international standing or the welfare of its citizens.