The Nigerian Senate says it will soon debate comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump alleging a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria.
During plenary, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said he would wait for the Federal Government’s official response before commenting, citing the issue’s diplomatic sensitivity. “Who am I to respond to President Trump?” Akpabio remarked, clarifying he never made any statement on the matter.
He revealed he has petitioned the police and Department of State Services (DSS) over false reports linking him to the controversy and urged the Cybercrime Unit to track down those behind fake news about the Senate.
Akpabio also cautioned Nigerians and the media against spreading misinformation that could inflame tensions, stressing the need for peace and unity in a multi-ethnic country. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, however, quipped that Nigeria is a sovereign nation and that there is no reason to fear Trump.
Trump had recently threatened military action against Nigeria over alleged attacks on Christians, saying the U.S. response would be “fast, vicious, and sweet.” His comments have drawn widespread diplomatic reactions.
Presidential spokesman Daniel Bwala said Nigeria remains a U.S. ally in the fight against terrorism but will defend its sovereignty. He suggested Trump’s remarks may lead to a meeting with President Bola Tinubu to discuss shared security concerns.
Tinubu has since dismissed claims of religious persecution, maintaining that Nigeria remains a tolerant and united nation.
