Former Presidential Adviser, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has urged President Bola Tinubu to address Nigerians directly regarding the recent threat by US President Donald Trump to deploy American military forces to Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians. Baba-Ahmed expressed concern over the president’s silence, stating that it undermines public confidence in the country’s leadership.
The call comes after Trump threatened military intervention in Nigeria if the alleged Christian persecution continues, a claim firmly rejected by the Tinubu administration. Information Minister Mohammed Idris countered that the allegations from the United States are based on “inaccurate data and misrepresentation” of Nigeria’s security challenges, emphasizing that terrorism, not religious persecution, remains the country’s primary concern.
Baba-Ahmed advised President Tinubu against traveling to the United States for talks with Trump, warning that it would damage Nigeria’s image. Instead, he suggested that the president should take decisive steps to protect Nigeria’s international reputation by appointing ambassadors, strengthening the country’s diplomatic presence abroad, and addressing the nation directly.
China has expressed its support for Nigeria, condemning any foreign interference under the guise of religion or human rights. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, stated that China firmly opposes any country using religion and human rights as an excuse to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs or threatening them with sanctions or military force.
The United States, however, has reaffirmed its readiness to intervene should the alleged Christian persecution persist. Trump reiterated that the US stands ready to save the Christian population around the world. Nigeria maintains that its constitution protects religious freedom and that security challenges affect both Christians and Muslims across the country.
The situation highlights the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the issue. The Nigerian government has emphasized its commitment to protecting all citizens, irrespective of religious affiliation, and has called for mutual respect for sovereignty. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the international community will respond to the allegations and the threat of military intervention.