The Republican Mayor of Blanco City, Texas, Mike Arnold, has criticized Nigerians for condemning comments made by the United States on terrorism in the country while still seeking financial assistance from America.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Monday, Arnold questioned what he described as Nigeria’s contradictory stance — rejecting external opinions on its internal security issues yet appealing for foreign aid.
“It doesn’t make sense that Nigeria doesn’t want America to speak on terrorism in the country but still wants our money,” he said.
The U.S. mayor expressed disbelief that a nation as naturally endowed as Nigeria continues to rely heavily on international assistance despite its abundant mineral resources.
“I don’t understand why a nation as mineral-rich as Nigeria has to go and beg for help to save her own people,” Arnold stated. “Nigeria has plenty of resources to help her people attain stability.”
He further lamented the plight of displaced persons in Nigeria, criticizing the destruction of their homes and the lack of adequate support systems.
“Displaced people are denied stability; their homes are bulldozed with no warning. It is horrific,” he added.
Arnold concluded by reiterating his view that Nigeria cannot continue to reject U.S. commentary on terrorism while depending on American financial aid, describing the position as “illogical and inconsistent.”