Former U.S. President faces backlash after threatening military action over alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria
A wave of outrage has greeted former United States President Donald Trump’s recent comments threatening military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians in the country.
Trump, in a statement that has sparked global reactions, claimed that “thousands of Christians” were being killed by Islamist extremists in Nigeria and warned that the U.S. would consider using force if the Nigerian government failed to act. He also hinted at cutting off American aid to Nigeria if the situation persisted.
The Nigerian government, in a swift response, rejected Trump’s claims and described his comments as “unfounded, misleading, and disrespectful to Nigeria’s sovereignty.” Officials maintained that Nigeria is not a religiously intolerant country, stressing that its security challenges are complex and not simply a case of “Christians versus Muslims.”
Civil society groups, political figures, and online commentators have also condemned Trump’s remarks, describing them as neo-imperialist and insensitive.
“This is an act of aggression and intimidation unbecoming of a world leader,” one coalition of civil society organizations stated, accusing Trump of attempting to “bully a sovereign African nation.”
Former aviation minister and political analyst Femi Fani-Kayode also rebuked the comments, saying Nigeria would “resist any invasion threat,” while several commentators argued that Trump’s narrative oversimplified the country’s internal crises.
Observers noted that while Nigeria welcomes international support in the fight against terrorism and banditry, the tone of Trump’s warning—couched in threats of military force—was considered undiplomatic and inflammatory.
“The U.S. should assist with intelligence and technology, not threats that undermine our sovereignty,” Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso said in response.
Many Nigerians on social media have also described Trump’s intervention as “offensive” and “dangerous,” warning that such statements could deepen religious tensions in the country.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed that the government “will not tolerate any form of foreign interference” and that the United States “cannot unilaterally carry out any military operation on Nigerian soil.”
Political analysts say the episode underscores the sensitivity of foreign commentary on Nigeria’s internal affairs, especially on issues relating to religion, insecurity, and national pride.
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