The United States Chapter of Nigeria’s Ruling Party Calls for Diplomacy Over Military Action
The United States chapter of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a formal letter to the leadership of the U.S. Congress, urging caution in response to recent claims of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria. This move comes in the wake of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial threat to deploy American military forces to Nigeria if the alleged persecution of Christians is not addressed.
The letter, dated November 5, 2025, was sent to key figures in the U.S. Congress, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and Senate Minority Leader John Thune. The APC USA emphasized the need for diplomatic engagement rather than military intervention, highlighting concerns over what it described as “distorted narratives” about Nigeria’s security situation.
In the letter, signed by the chapter’s chairman, Prof. Tai Balofin, the group acknowledged the United States’ commitment to global religious freedom but warned that the current discourse on Nigeria could be influenced by misinformation and political agendas. Balofin pointed out that the recent classification of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” by Trump might be driven by partisan politics ahead of the 2027 general elections in Nigeria.
Balofin explained that while violent incidents have indeed resulted in tragic loss of life, these are largely rooted in long-standing communal and resource-based conflicts between farmers and herders in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region. He stressed that such violence is not primarily motivated by religion, but by competition over land and resources.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated impartial and decisive leadership in addressing insecurity,” the letter stated. It referenced the June 2025 massacre in Benue State, where over 200 predominantly Christian lives were lost. According to the letter, Tinubu visited the affected community, directed the arrest of the perpetrators, and ensured their prosecution under terrorism and murder laws.
The APC USA maintained that these actions reflect Tinubu’s “uncompromising policy against impunity,” asserting that his government’s approach to justice and peace is inclusive and not based on religious affiliation.
The group also raised concerns that exaggerated portrayals of Nigeria’s security crisis could harm bilateral relations, discourage foreign investment, and weaken cooperation between both nations in counterterrorism and development efforts. Instead of considering military measures, the APC USA urged the U.S. Congress to prioritize diplomatic and cooperative solutions.
They proposed judicial collaboration, interfaith dialogue programs, and verified diaspora engagement as more sustainable paths to peace. These initiatives, they argued, would foster better understanding and address the root causes of conflict.
Reaffirming its commitment to serve as a credible information channel, the APC USA said it was ready to brief congressional staff or facilitate direct communication with Nigerian authorities to promote balanced understanding and informed policymaking.
The letter concluded with an appeal to U.S. lawmakers to continue strengthening the long-standing partnership between Nigeria and the United States, anchored on shared democratic values and respect for human rights.