Youth Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria Supports Trump’s Claims
The Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) has publicly endorsed former United States President Donald Trump’s assertion that Christians in Nigeria are being systematically targeted and killed. This support was expressed during the National Youth Fellowship Convention held in Abuja, where the National Secretary of YOWICAN, Elijah Bako, emphasized the need for urgent action from Nigerian authorities.
Bako welcomed Trump’s proposed intervention, describing it as a timely “wake-up call” rather than an attack on national sovereignty. The event brought together zonal and state youth leaders from various regions, including Plateau, Nasarawa, Benue, and the North-East.
Trump had previously raised concerns on his Truth Social platform, warning that the United States might take strong measures if the alleged killings continued. In response, Bako highlighted the alarming situation in parts of the North and Middle Belt, where there have been widespread killings, kidnappings, and the destruction of churches. He described this as a “breaking point” for Christian communities.
Quoting the 1999 Constitution, Bako reminded political leaders that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.” However, he noted that the current reality contradicts this principle, with attacks becoming daily occurrences while perpetrators remain unpunished.
Bako argued that the attacks in states such as Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Taraba, and Adamawa are not random but part of a deliberate effort to erase Christian presence from the region. He referenced the experiences of Leah Sharibu and Deborah Samuel, who have become symbols of endurance in the face of persecution.
“Our call is simple: Let there be justice, let there be peace, and let Nigeria rise again as a nation where faith is not a crime and human life is sacred,” Bako declared.
This statement follows similar sentiments expressed by former Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, who supported Trump’s warning. In a statement titled “Alleged Genocide: My Stance On President Trump’s Statement,” Dickson emphasized the need for global cooperation to address extremist violence, while also respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Dickson pointed out that groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP have caused significant harm over nearly 15 years, affecting people of all religions and ethnic backgrounds. He called for collective efforts to combat such threats.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu addressed the issue during a Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja. He stated that his administration is engaging world leaders diplomatically regarding Trump’s remarks and assured Nigerians that external actors will not undermine national decisions. Tinubu also reiterated the government’s commitment to fighting terrorism and achieving greater stability and economic recovery.
His comments came after some Northern groups dismissed calls to abolish Sharia law, emphasizing the importance of cultural and religious autonomy.
Key Points Raised by YOWICAN
- Urgent Action Needed: Bako stressed that the wave of violence against Christians has reached a critical stage, requiring immediate intervention.
- Constitutional Rights: He referenced the 1999 Constitution to highlight the responsibility of the government to protect its citizens.
- Deliberate Attacks: Bako described the attacks as part of a pattern aimed at erasing Christian communities from certain regions.
- Symbolic Figures: The stories of Leah Sharibu and Deborah Samuel were cited as examples of resilience in the face of persecution.
- Call for Justice: Bako urged for justice and peace, envisioning a Nigeria where faith is protected and human life is valued.
Global Perspectives
- Senator Seriake Dicksonsupported Trump’s warnings, advocating for international collaboration to tackle extremism.
- President Bola Tinubureassured the public that the government is actively working to combat terrorism and maintain national sovereignty.