The All Progressives Congress (APC) in the United States has called on President Donald Trump to prioritize diplomatic efforts over military intervention after the US labeled Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” due to allegations of religious persecution.
In a statement released Tuesday from Washington, APC USA Chairman, Prof. Tai Balofin, praised Trump’s commitment to global religious freedoms but argued that diplomacy, not military action, is the best route to resolving Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
“President Trump’s vigilance in upholding the values of freedom is commendable, but in the realm of international relations, it is through dialogue and collaboration rather than division that sustainable peace is achieved,” Balofin stated.
Trump’s comments on October 31, followed by a November 2 post on his Truth Social platform, suggested a potential US military response, stating that U.S. forces should “prepare for possible action.” His remarks have sparked widespread global concern.
In response, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu described the US designation as a “gross exaggeration,” reaffirming his administration’s dedication to partnering with global allies to fight extremism and uphold national unity.
Balofin, however, warned against simplifying Nigeria’s multifaceted security issues. He pointed out that much of the violence cited in international reports stems from resource-based and communal conflicts, which affect both Christian and Muslim communities. Furthermore, he highlighted that many of the incidents referenced occurred prior to Tinubu’s administration, which took office in 2023.
One example cited was the June 2025 Yelwata massacre in Benue State, where over 200 Christians were killed. Balofin praised Tinubu’s rapid response, including a visit to the victims’ community, orders for arrests, and the swift detention of 41 suspects.
“President Tinubu’s actions showed both empathy and resolve. His prompt response underscored that under his leadership, impunity will not be tolerated,” he said.
The APC USA Chairman also rejected claims that the Nigerian government is indifferent to insecurity, describing such allegations as politically motivated efforts to undermine Tinubu’s administration ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Opposition forces are actively working to destabilize the government and discredit its reform efforts. These distortions, amplified internationally, are aimed at tarnishing Tinubu’s reputation and deterring foreign investment,” Balofin stated.
In closing, he called for greater US-Nigeria cooperation, especially in areas such as judicial reforms, interfaith dialogue, and supporting diaspora-driven initiatives to promote understanding and accurate reporting. He reassured Nigerians living abroad that ongoing diplomatic channels would work to ease tensions and correct misunderstandings surrounding the situation.
“Through APC USA’s advocacy and backchannel efforts, President Trump will receive a fuller understanding of the facts, averting any military action. This situation presents an opportunity for a stronger, more respectful U.S.-Nigeria relationship,” Balofin concluded.
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