The United States chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed former U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims suggesting an ongoing Christian genocide in Nigeria.
In a letter dated November 5, 2025, and signed by its Chairman, Prof. Tai Balofin, the APC USA chapter said such claims were exaggerated and politically motivated. The group argued that some individuals in U.S. conservative circles were spreading these narratives to influence Nigeria’s 2027 general election for political advantage.
According to the letter, the ruling party’s diaspora arm appreciated Trump’s advocacy for global religious freedom but insisted that his comments about Nigeria lacked balance. It urged Washington to reassess Nigeria’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC), citing reforms made under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“We deeply admire your leadership in defending religious freedom worldwide — a cause shared by both nations,” the letter stated.
However, the group stressed that much of the violence described as “religious genocide” actually stems from communal conflicts involving both Christians and Muslims. These conflicts, it said, often revolve around land, water, and grazing routes, not religion.
The APC USA chapter cited the June 2025 Yelwata massacre in Benue State, where over 200 villagers were killed. It noted that President Tinubu’s immediate visit to the scene and his directive for arrests under Nigeria’s terrorism and murder laws showed the government’s impartial response.
“This swift action reflects zero tolerance for impunity, regardless of faith,” the letter emphasized.
The diaspora group warned that false genocide claims could damage Nigeria’s global reputation and discourage foreign investment. It also accused opposition politicians of fueling these narratives to gain sympathy from international allies before the 2027 polls.
The letter further cautioned that external intervention or military action could destabilize Nigeria, describing diplomacy, interfaith peacebuilding, and judicial cooperation as more effective alternatives.
“Any military escalation would inflame divisions and embolden extremists,” it warned.
The APC USA chapter offered to serve as a liaison between U.S. policymakers and credible Nigerian stakeholders. It said this would ensure that international decisions are based on verified information, not politically motivated propaganda.
The letter ended by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to its strategic partnership with the United States, built on democracy, mutual respect, and shared values.