US President Donald Trump has warned that the United States could deploy troops or launch air strikes in Nigeria to stop the alleged killing of large numbers of Christians in the country.
Trump made the statement on Sunday while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, saying, “Could be. I mean, other things. I envisage a lot of things. They’re killing record numbers of Christians in Nigeria… We’re not going to allow that to happen.”
This statement comes after Trump redesignated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to claims of genocide against Christians.
The US president emphasized that Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria, with radical Islamists allegedly responsible for mass slaughter.
Trump’s comments have sparked diplomatic tension and raised concerns about potential US military intervention in Nigeria.
Though, the Nigerian government has vehemently denied claims of Christian genocide, emphasizing that the country’s constitution protects religious rights and ensures equality for all faiths.
President Bola Tinubu stated: “Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty.”
Tinubu also highlighted his administration’s efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and safeguard freedom of religion for all Nigerians.
The situation has raised questions about the potential implications of US military intervention in Nigeria.
Military action could lead to further escalation of violence, potentially resulting in more harm to civilians and destabilizing the region.
The Nigerian government has emphasized its commitment to protecting civilians, but the presence of foreign troops could raise concerns about humanitarian law and human rights.
The US-Nigeria relationship could be strained further, potentially affecting cooperation on security, trade, and other issues.
