Three Nigerian civic organisations have urged the United States to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and choose diplomacy over threats, following reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump suggested possible military action over alleged persecution of Christians in the country.
The Oodua Renaissance Movement (ORM), Student Rights Coalition (SRC), and the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Crusade Organisation (ABATCO) jointly condemned Trump’s reported comments, describing any idea of foreign intervention as “deeply troubling and unacceptable.”
Speaking for the groups, Comrade Oluwaseun Samuel Ayeni, Convener of ABATCO, reaffirmed their commitment to Nigeria’s unity and the safety of all citizens.
“Nigeria is a sovereign nation with democratic institutions,” Ayeni said. “What the country needs from friends and allies is partnership, not threats.”
The organisations acknowledged Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges but warned against viewing them solely through a religious lens.
Citing reports from global agencies, they noted that over 55,000 Nigerians—both Christians and Muslims—have died in violent conflicts since 2019.
“The violence in Nigeria is complex, driven by terrorism, poverty, and governance gaps,” the statement read. “Framing it as a war on Christians alone risks deepening division.”
The groups called for stronger U.S.–Nigeria cooperation in intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism, and humanitarian support rather than confrontation.
They also urged the Tinubu administration to expand intelligence operations, ensure justice for victims, and promote interfaith peacebuilding.
“We reject external military interference,” Ayeni added. “Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty are non-negotiable. The path forward is collaboration, not confrontation.”
Reporting by Taoreed Abdullahi