FBI Asks US Court for Secret Submission Over Tinubu File Redactions

FBI Asks US Court for Secret Submission Over Tinubu File Redactions

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has applied to a United States court for permission to submit a confidential declaration explaining why it is withholding certain law enforcement records relating to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu.

In an application filed on August 20, 2026, before the US District Court for the District of Columbia, the FBI requested authorization to present an ex parte, in camera (sealed private submission) to the judge, stating that it cannot publicly disclose its full reasons without compromising sensitive law enforcement procedures or individual safety.

Legal Battle and FOIA Exemptions

The court application was filed in response to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests submitted by Aaron Greenspan, founder of PlainSite, who is seeking full access to FBI files and interview records relating to Tinubu from 1992 to 1993.

Key highlights from the filing include:

• FOIA Exemptions Invoked: The FBI cited several legal exemptions (Exemptions 6, 7C, 7D, 7E, and 7F), arguing that public release of the redacted details would expose investigative techniques and could reasonably be expected to endanger the life or physical safety of individuals.
• Sealed Declaration Deadline: If granted, the agency plans to submit its confidential explanation to Judge Beryl Howell before August 28.
• Extension Denied: The development follows Judge Howell’s decision to reject a request by the US Department of Justice and Tinubu’s legal team for a 10-day extension, granting only a four-day extension to August 21 to respond to outstanding disclosure orders.
• Background of Litigation: In April 2025, Judge Howell ruled that initial blanket “Glomar” responses—where agencies refuse to confirm or deny the existence of records—issued by the FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regarding Tinubu were improper and ordered them lifted.

With the judge rejecting further delays, all eyes now turn to the court’s impending deadline to see whether the FBI’s secret filing will be accepted or if public disclosure will finally be enforced.