The United States chapter of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has written to the leadership of the US Congress, urging caution regarding recent claims of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria.
The move follows President Donald Trump’s recent threat to deploy American military forces to Nigeria if alleged attacks on Christians are not halted.
In a letter dated November 5, 2025, addressed to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and Senate Minority Leader John Thune, the APC USA called for diplomatic engagement over military intervention.
The letter, signed by the chapter chairman, Prof. Tai Balofin, emphasized that while violent incidents have claimed lives, they largely stem from long-standing communal and resource-based conflicts in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, rather than targeted religious persecution.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated impartial and decisive leadership in addressing insecurity,” the letter stated.
“Following the June 2025 massacre in Benue State, where over 200 predominantly Christian lives were lost, he visited the affected community, directed the arrest of the perpetrators, and ensured prosecution under terrorism and murder laws.”
The APC USA stressed that such actions reflect the federal government’s uncompromising policy against impunity and highlighted that its approach to justice and peace is inclusive, not religion-based.
The letter warned that exaggerated portrayals of Nigeria’s security challenges could strain US-Nigeria relations, deter foreign investment, and undermine cooperation on counterterrorism and development initiatives.
“Rather than consider military measures, we urge the US Congress to prioritize diplomatic and cooperative solutions,” Balofin wrote.
“Judicial collaboration, interfaith dialogue programs, and verified diaspora engagement provide more sustainable paths to peace.”
APC USA reaffirmed its commitment to serve as a reliable channel of information and offered to brief congressional staff or facilitate direct communication with Nigerian authorities to ensure a balanced understanding of the situation.
The chapter appealed to US lawmakers to strengthen the long-standing partnership between Nigeria and the United States, grounded in shared democratic values and respect for human rights.
