President Bola Tinubu has been at the centre of a viral social media post claiming he pledged support to either Iran or Israel in the ongoing conflict. The claim, which appeared on Facebook via the 237 Best Music blog, stated that Tinubu had offered backing to "any of the countries involved in the fighting" so they could reciprocate in the future. By March 16, 2026, the post had garnered significant attention, with 1,700 likes, 654 comments, and 57 shares on Facebook, and further circulated on Instagram.

The claim was made in the context of a significant escalation in the conflict between Israel and Iran, which began on February 28, 2026, when Israel, backed by the United States, launched airstrikes on multiple Iranian targets. The international community has since called for diplomacy and urged all parties to reduce tensions. The Nigerian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has expressed deep concern over the violence and urged both countries to prioritise dialogue over military action.

Extensive searches conducted by VERIFICATION WITHIN NIGERIA found no evidence that Tinubu made such a statement. No reputable international or Nigerian news outlet reported the president taking sides in the war. The Nigerian government's stance on neutrality in international conflicts remains unchanged, with a long history of advocating for peaceful resolution rather than engagement in foreign military disputes.

💡 NaijaBuzz Take

President Tinubu's silence on the matter is telling, especially given the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' clear stance on the conflict. The viral post claiming Tinubu's support for either party is a clear fabrication, and it is concerning that it has gained traction on social media. The Nigerian government's commitment to neutrality in international conflicts should be a source of comfort for Nigerians, who are already grappling with the economic implications of global events. The fact that Tinubu's spokesperson could not be reached for clarification raises further questions about the president's handling of sensitive diplomatic matters.