Senate Drama as Akpabio, Barau Clash Over Trump’s Remarks on Nigeria
There was mild tension in the Senate on Tuesday after Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Senator Jibrin Barau, disagreed over how to respond to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments about Nigeria.
Trump had recently described Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” accusing the government of allowing the persecution of Christians — a claim later echoed by U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who hinted at possible military action.
President Bola Tinubu swiftly rejected Trump’s remarks, stressing that Nigeria remains a democratic nation that guarantees religious freedom.
During plenary, Akpabio said Nigerians were eager for the Senate’s response but maintained that the chamber would wait for official briefing from the government. “Who am I to reply Trump?” he asked, saying the Senate could only act on formally presented matters.
His comment, however, drew a strong reaction from Deputy Senate President Barau, who countered that Nigeria is a sovereign nation and should not shy away from defending itself. “We’re not afraid. Don’t be scared. I am a Nigerian, and Trump’s claims are lies about our country,” he said.
Akpabio later stressed that Trump’s statement did not reflect Nigeria’s reality, warning against misinformation and urging social media users to avoid posts that could inflame tensions. “Their breaking news shouldn’t break Nigeria,” he said.
