George Ogunjimi, convener of Lawyers Without Borders and Legal Coordinator of Renewed Hope Agenda Diaspora, has condemned calls by some politicians for the withholding or restriction of diaspora remittances, describing the move as reckless and detrimental to the welfare of Nigerians.
Ogunjimi, in a press statement dated October 20, 2026, said diaspora remittances should not be used as political instruments to express dissatisfaction or advance partisan interests.
He stressed that the funds represented the hard-earned resources of Nigerians living abroad, who support their families, pay school fees, provide healthcare and sustain businesses across the country.
According to him, any attempt to jeopardise these financial lifelines because of political disagreements could worsen the economic hardship facing millions of Nigerians, particularly vulnerable households dependent on support from relatives overseas.
“Diaspora remittances are not political donations, government revenue to be manipulated at will, or instruments for settling political scores,”
he said.Ogunjimi described Nigerians in the diaspora as important partners in national development, noting that their contributions extended beyond financial transfers to include investments, professional expertise, technology transfer, philanthropy and international advocacy.
He argued that politicians with concerns about the economy, foreign exchange market, financial regulations or the welfare of Nigerians should pursue constructive engagement and evidence-based policy proposals rather than make inflammatory statements capable of discouraging legitimate financial transfers.
The legal practitioner, however, acknowledged the responsibility of government and financial authorities to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, fraud and other illicit financial activities.
He maintained that measures to address such crimes must be lawful, proportionate and evidence-based, warning against the use of financial regulations as a pretext for imposing indiscriminate restrictions on legitimate remittances.
Ogunjimi called on political leaders, public officeholders, political parties and other influential stakeholders to exercise restraint and desist from statements or proposals that could threaten the flow of legitimate diaspora funds.
He also urged the Federal Government and relevant financial authorities to sustain policies that promote secure, affordable, transparent and accessible remittance channels while protecting the interests of both senders and recipients.
According to him, Nigeria needs economic recovery, social stability and renewed public confidence, making it imperative for political leaders to prioritise the welfare of citizens over partisan considerations.
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“Nigeria cannot afford a political culture in which the financial survival of ordinary citizens becomes a bargaining chip in partisan contests,” he said.
He insisted that Nigerians abroad should retain the freedom to support their families and invest in the country through legitimate and properly regulated channels.
Ogunjimi further maintained that diaspora remittances should serve as instruments of solidarity, investment and shared prosperity rather than tools of political intimidation.
He urged stakeholders to reject any proposal that could undermine the contributions of Nigerians abroad, warning that the consequences would be felt most directly by families relying on the funds for their daily needs.