FBI Seeks Court Approval to Withhold Tinubu Records

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has filed an application dated August 20, 2023, with the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, seeking permission to provide a confidential explanation for withholding records related to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and a drug-trafficking investigation from 1992 to 1993. The FBI argues that the full basis for withholding certain information cannot be disclosed publicly and intends to file an ex parte, in camera declaration under seal.

This declaration would allow the judge to review the information privately. The records were requested under the US Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), with the FBI citing several exemptions, including those related to law enforcement records and privacy interests.

The agency stated that releasing the information could endanger individuals' safety and disclose investigative techniques. The FBI plans to submit the confidential declaration by August 28, 2023, if the court approves the application.

The case was initiated by Aaron Greenspan, founder of PlainSite, and is linked to ongoing disputes regarding allegations involving Tinubu.