Following the re-designation of Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ (CPC) by United States President, Donald Trump, over alleged genocide against Christians, reactions from Nigeria’s opposition figures have begun to emerge, reflecting a mix of caution, nationalism, and calls for internal reform.
However, some opposition figures have cautioned against welcoming Trump’s controversial threat of military intervention in Nigeria, while others have kept mum.
Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi Silent — But Active on Other Issues:
Interestingly, two of the country’s most prominent opposition figures—Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, have not commented publicly on Trump’s threat or the CPC designation of Nigeria, despite their reputations for speaking on national issues.
The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, who has often been outspoken about what he would do in sensitive national situations if he were to be the President, has remained silent on Trump’s warning, instead focusing on other engagements over the weekend.
On Friday, Obi shared that he attended the funeral of Dr. Mike Ejeagha, the legendary highlife musician known for “Gwo Gwo Gwom.” On Saturday, he posted that he had travelled to Amichi, Anambra State, visiting the College of Nursing, Amichi. On Sunday, he celebrated Cardinal Arinze’s 93rd birthday in a post on his social handles.
Similarly, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Atiku Abubakar, has maintained silence on Trump’s threat but has remained active on social and political issues.
On Saturday, he condemned the detention of a student from Ibrahim Babamasi Babangida University in Lapai by the Niger State Government. On Sunday, he commented on the Anambra State governorship election set to take place over the weekend. On Monday, he posted about leading a delegation on a condolence visit to the family of H.E. Ahmadu Adamu Mu’azu, former governor of Bauchi State, over the passing of his mother, Hajiya Halima Suleman.
Kwankwaso: “Nigeria’s Problems Not Religious”
The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, also urged caution in responding to Trump’s remarks. In a statement on his verified Facebook page, Kwankwaso said the U.S. President’s comments risked fueling division in a country already struggling with security challenges.
“Insecurity in Nigeria affects all tribes and religious groups,” he said. “While Nigeria faces serious security challenges, these issues cut across ethnic, religious, and political lines.” Kwankwaso emphasised that Nigeria remains a sovereign nation capable of resolving its internal problems. He urged the U.S. to provide technological and intelligence support instead of making divisive statements.
Sowore: “No One Should Celebrate Such Rhetoric”
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, warned Nigerians to be wary of celebrating Trump’s statement, describing it as “perilous.” He argued that U.S. military interventions in other countries have historically resulted in chaos rather than stability.
“The latest threat by U.S. President Donald Trump to launch military action in Nigeria, allegedly to protect Christians, may sound appealing to some. Still, history has shown this to be perilous,” Sowore wrote.
“Whether you are Christian, Muslim, animist, or non-religious, no one should celebrate such rhetoric.”
Meanwhile, the Federal Government, while reiterating its commitment to ending terrorism and violent extremism, has also sought to reassure citizens and the international community that it remains capable of protecting all Nigerians regardless of religion or ethnicity.
