By Ibrahim Muhammad
The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Shehu Musa Gabam, has strongly criticised former United States President Donald Trump over his recent allegation that Nigeria is committing “genocide against Christians.” Gabam described the claim as dangerous, misleading, and an affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty.
In a statement, Gabam, whose party is duly recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said Trump’s remarks—along with the U.S. government’s renewed classification of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern—amount to a deliberate distortion of facts. He warned that such rhetoric could inflame tensions in a nation already grappling with complex and deeply rooted security challenges.
“There is no religious genocide in Nigeria. Nigerians from both faiths are victims of insecurity. The tragedy is universal, not sectional,” Gabam stated.
The SDP chairman noted that the worst-hit regions, particularly the North-East and North-West, have recorded thousands of Muslim casualties, contradicting Trump’s narrative and highlighting that Nigeria’s crisis stems from governance failures rather than religious persecution.
Gabam urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to adopt a strategic, evidence-based diplomatic response and to appoint capable ambassadors who can effectively defend Nigeria’s image and interests on the global stage.
He reminded Nigerians that this is not the first time Trump has made disparaging remarks about the country, recalling past comments describing Nigeria as “fantastically corrupt” and the imposition of visa restrictions during his administration.
“Such provocations should serve as a wake-up call for Nigeria to strengthen its institutions and rebuild public trust,” Gabam said.
While acknowledging the gravity of Nigeria’s security problems, the SDP leader stressed that sustainable solutions must come from within, not through foreign pressure or external military intervention, which he warned could further destabilise the nation.
Gabam called for professionalism, transparency, and respect for human rights within the country’s security agencies as essential steps toward restoring public confidence and national unity.
He emphasised that while international perception is important, Nigeria must prioritise protecting lives and improving governance over managing global optics.
“Ultimately, Nigeria must fix Nigeria,” Gabam concluded.
