Nigerian Community in Australia Condemns Attacks on Acting High Commissioner

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Association of Nigerians in the ACT (NAACT) has strongly condemned what it described as sustained misinformation and personal attacks against Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to Australia, Jane Bassey Adams, warning that such actions undermine the unity and reputation of the Nigerian diaspora.

In a statement issued by its president, Francis C. Ogbonnaya, the association criticised the conduct of Chris Juwon Fayomi, who has presented himself as a leader of Nigerian students in Australia and has publicly criticised the Nigerian diplomat.

NAACT said while it firmly supports the right of individuals and groups to express concerns and hold public officials accountable, such engagement must be grounded in facts, integrity and responsible conduct.

According to the association, the recent campaign against Adams has gone beyond legitimate advocacy and instead reflects a troubling pattern of misinformation, distortion and personal attacks amplified through public commentary and media engagement.

The group expressed particular concern that the allegations were being directed at a senior diplomatic official who, by the nature of her office, is constrained from responding publicly to the claims.

“It is particularly concerning that these actions are directed at a senior diplomatic official who, by the nature of her office, is constrained from responding publicly to such allegations,” the statement said.

The association argued that exploiting such professional restraint to circulate unverified claims was inappropriate and inconsistent with the ethical standards expected of individuals claiming community leadership.

It stressed that leadership carries a responsibility to demonstrate maturity, integrity and respect for others, adding that the conduct in question does not reflect the character and values of the Nigerian community in the Australian Capital Territory.

NAACT therefore called on Nigerians in the diaspora to avoid politicising grievances and instead pursue concerns through appropriate and constructive channels.

“Differences of opinion must never descend into defamation or the denigration of individuals and institutions,” the association said, adding it would not condone actions aimed at damaging reputations through reckless falsehoods or self-serving narratives.

The group also reaffirmed its confidence in Adams, describing its engagements with the Acting High Commissioner as respectful, collaborative and focused on advancing Nigeria’s national interest and strengthening ties with Nigerians living in Australia.

“We have absolute confidence in her verifiable, demonstrable, selfless and evidence-based services and advocacy for the Nigerian community in the ACT and Australia-wide,” the statement added.

The controversy follows recent public criticisms directed at Adams by Fayomi, who has claimed to represent the interests of Nigerian students in Australia.

His comments, which have circulated through media platforms and community discussions, have sparked debate within the Nigerian diaspora about representation, leadership and engagement with diplomatic authorities.

Nigeria maintains a diplomatic mission in Australia responsible for providing consular services, promoting bilateral relations and supporting Nigerians residing in the country, including students and professionals.

As Acting High Commissioner, Adams plays a key role in coordinating these responsibilities while serving as the official representative of the Nigerian government.

Community organisations such as NAACT, which represents Nigerians living in the Australian Capital Territory, often serve as liaison platforms between diaspora members and diplomatic officials, helping to address welfare concerns, cultural engagement and community development.

However, recent tensions within segments of the diaspora community have brought renewed attention to the challenges of balancing advocacy for Nigerians abroad with respectful engagement with diplomatic institutions.

NAACT said it remains committed to unity, dignity and constructive dialogue, urging members of the Nigerian community in Australia to pursue grievances through responsible and respectful channels rather than public confrontations that could damage collective interests.