Germany Humiliates Tinubu: Rejects Fani-Kayode Over ‘Erratic Behaviour’ And Extremist Comments
By Paul Ebi
A fresh diplomatic controversy has erupted after the German government reportedly rejected the nomination of former aviation minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, as Nigeria’s ambassador over concerns about his conduct and past public statements.
According to an exclusive report by Peoples Gazette, the Central European country declined the appointment just days after President Bola Tinubu approved the controversial posting on March 6, 2026.
Sources familiar with the development disclosed that German authorities formally rejected the nomination on March 13, citing what they described as Mr Fani-Kayode’s “erratic behaviour” and a history of “divisive ethnocentric, tribalistic, and religious fundamentalist comments” deemed potentially destabilising.
The decision has sparked debate within diplomatic and political circles, raising questions about Nigeria’s ambassadorial screening process and the international implications of appointing polarising figures to sensitive foreign missions.
The rejection comes amid fresh controversy involving Mr Fani-Kayode, who recently clashed with the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, during a Ramadan dinner in Abuja hosted by Senator Bashir Lado, a presidential aide. The incident reportedly added to concerns about his temperament and diplomatic suitability.
A senior government official, speaking anonymously, hinted that the former minister may be reassigned to another country, with South Africa being considered as a possible alternative posting.
Mr Fani-Kayode, a prominent yet controversial political figure, has long faced criticism over his outspoken rhetoric and confrontational style. In 2020, he drew nationwide backlash after verbally attacking a journalist during a press briefing in Calabar, an incident for which he later issued a public apology.
He has also been embroiled in legal battles, including charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over alleged fraud, money laundering, and forgery. However, courts between 2024 and 2025 dismissed the cases, citing insufficient evidence linking him to the alleged offences.
The latest development is expected to intensify scrutiny on the Tinubu administration’s diplomatic appointments, with critics warning that such controversies risk damaging Nigeria’s global image and foreign relations at a critical time.
