Category: Daily Trust

Family feuds have always shaped history. But in Kano, the past is not just remembered – it keeps returning in new forms. To understand today’s emirate crisis, one must revisit 1894, when the ancient city was torn apart by a royal conflict that still echoes through time.

In his classic Kano Civil War and British Overrule, Dr. Adamu Fika recounts the events of 1894-1895, when Kano was gripped by a civil war between two branches of the Ibrahim Dabo dynasty – the Tukurawa and the Yusufawa. They were cousins: one line descended from Emir Bello, the other from Emir Abdullahi Maje Karofi.

At stake was legitimacy. Emir Tukur, from the Bello line, faced rebellion from Yusuf, son of Abdullahi Maje Karofi, whose supporters believed their lineage had been unfairly denied the throne. Yusuf died before the war ended, and his younger brother, Alu Maisango, took charge. The war concluded in 1895 with Tukur’s defeat and death.

Alu ruled until 1903, when the British conquered Kano. They exiled him and installed his brother, Abbas – ancestor to both Emir Aminu Ado Bayero and Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II. That single decision altered the course of Kano’s history and froze a dynastic rivalry that still simmers beneath the surface today.

The current crisis is a modern replay of that old family feud – except that the weapons have changed. Constitutions and court rulings have replaced swords and spears. Political interests now drive what was once a purely dynastic contest. And outsiders – notably Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso – have added their own rivalries to the mix, turning heritage into a political battlefield.

Ironically, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, now at the centre of the storm, also shares the same royal ancestry. His great-grandfather, Yusuf – who led the 1894 rebellion – was the elder brother of Alu Maisango and Abbas. Like Sanusi II and Aminu Ado Bayero, the governor carries the same Dabo bloodline that once fought over the fate of Kano.

What happened in 1894 was not merely a struggle for the throne; it was a battle over justice, legitimacy, and the soul of Kano. What is unfolding today bears an uncanny resemblance – family against family, each claiming to defend tradition and truth.

But history should not be allowed to repeat itself. The time has come for reason and restraint.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the two emirs – Aminu Ado Bayero and Muhammadu Sanusi II – are of the same family. They owe it to their ancestors and to the people of Kano to end this feud once and for all. The emirate must not remain a stage for pride and politics.

The people of Kano deserve peace, not tension; stability, not uncertainty. And the governor, by virtue of both his position and lineage, is best placed to lead this reconciliation. He can make history – not by choosing sides, but by choosing peace.

No city prospers when its leaders are divided. No throne endures when brothers fight over it. History will not forgive those who let this cycle continue. The ghosts of 1894 must finally be laid to rest.

Let the sons of Ibrahim Dabo remember their shared blood. Let them rise above politics and restore unity to a city that once stood as a beacon of culture, faith, and pride.

Kano has bled enough from its own past. It is time to heal – and to move forward.

Justice Binta Fatima Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja division, will hear the suit instituted by Mr. Yushau A. Shuaib challenging his withdrawal from the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 47 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru.

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, assigned the case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1329/2025, and approved December 8, 2025, as the commencement date for hearing on the plaintiff’s grievances.

Represented by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Yunus Abdulsalam, the publisher of PRNigeria is seeking a court order to set aside his withdrawal from the SEC 47 and have him reinstated with full rights, benefits, and privileges.

Mr. Shuaib is suing NIPSS for ?1 billion in damages over emotional and reputational harm, plus ?100 million in litigation costs, alleging the institute ignored a pre-action notice sent to its Director General, Prof. Ayo Omotayo.

In a 40-paragraph affidavit, the media expert, nominated for the course by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), detailed the sequence of events he claims constitute harassment, cyberbullying and arbitrary disciplinary actions.

Mr. Shuaib recalled how he was queried over a PRNigeria news article titled ‘NIPSS Goes Digital.’ which he insisted he neither authored nor edited, and an opinion article about the country’s ‘Blue Economy,’ without any reference to the institute.

The plaintiff, who claimed that the queries were unfounded and not supported by the institute’s Code of Conduct, stated that his withdrawal letter, dated June 2, 2025, was not officially served on him but only addressed to the NIPR.

In the originating summons, he raised eight issues for determination, arguing that NIPSS’s actions were non licet and discriminatory. He said the alleged access of his email without consent violated the right to privacy under Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution.

Furthermore, Mr. Shuaib contends that the punitive action taken against him for professional opinions expressed in a published article that had nothing to do with NIPSS breached his guaranteed freedom of expression under Section 39(1).

He faults his suspension and withdrawal from the course, saying it was based on the alleged ‘externalisation of the subject’ as he had no opportunity of explanation, in violation of constitutional right to a fair hearing under Section 36(1).

Mr. Shuaib, who fully paid the ?18.3 million course fees, maintains that denying him participation in the international study tour amounted to both a breach of contract and discrimination.

The publisher also informed the court that the decision to bar other participants from interacting with him and removing him from official platforms amounted to harassment, cyberbullying, and forced isolation.

The plaintiff is seeking declarations that NIPSS had no authority to penalise him for content put out by an independent platform and that his withdrawal from the Senior Executive Course 47 was entirely unlawful.

Let me begin by congratulating you, Mr. President, on your return to the leadership of the United States of America. You have taken over the reins at a critical juncture in world politics, when the choices of your administration’s diplomacy will largely determine whether today’s global crises are resolved or further exacerbated. It is in this context that I write to express my considered view on how your administration should approach relations with Nigeria, particularly in light of the recent statement attributed to you placing Nigeria on the List of Countries of Particular Concern (CPC).

1. Recognizing Reality and Mutual Interests

Mr. President, as you very well know, sound policy begins with an appreciation of reality. U.S.-Nigeria relations, like all international relations, must be grounded in mutual needs and interests, and on truth and reality. For America, the principal concerns are terrorism and global insecurity, the threat to its economic and technological preeminence and the challenge of managing these issues effectively. Nigeria, on her part, is beset by insecurity, corruption and severe economic hardship. Recognizing that these problems are mutually reinforcing, and that their resolution serves the interests of both nations, is the key to a successful partnership.

2. The Global Context

With the post-Cold War order and the decline of communism, the Western world under U.S. leadership entered a tense relationship with the Islamic world, particularly after 9/11. Meanwhile, globalization has shifted economic power eastward, with Asia and Europe increasingly challenging America’s dominance. In this emerging landscape, Africa – especially Nigeria – offers the United States its most viable opportunity for renewed strategic and economic engagement.

Africa’s vast population, abundant natural resources and moderate religious composition make it a region of immense promise. Nigeria, the continent’s largest democracy and economy, stands as its natural anchor. Its religious and ethnic diversity, though sometimes exploited politically, is largely tolerant and culturally grounded. The present crises of terrorism and banditry are exceptions born of poverty, misgovernance and failed policy – not of religion or ideology.

3. Understanding Nigeria’s Internal Crisis

Since 1999, successive Nigerian governments have promised prosperity, transparency and employment under democracy but have instead delivered widespread poverty, corruption and inequality. Less than 5% of Nigerians control over 95% of the nation’s wealth, while the vast majority struggle daily for survival. Disillusioned citizens, deprived of justice and opportunity, become easy recruits for insurgency and crime.

As criminologist Ted Gurr observed, ‘When expectations go up and realities go down, men rebel.’ Nigeria’s insecurity, therefore, is a reaction to failed governance and broken promises, not a symptom of religious persecution or intolerance. The U.S. must resist the temptation to interpret Nigeria’s instability through a sectarian lens; it is a political and socio-economic crisis at its core.

4. The Way Forward

Rather than punitive measures such as the CPC designation, your administration should adopt a constructive engagement strategy built on the following pillars:

Economic Cooperation: Encourage U.S. investments, technology transfer and initiatives to alleviate hunger, unemployment and inequality;

Political Support: Strengthen democratic institutions, the rule of law, and credible electoral processes to build trust between government and citizens; and

Strategic Partnership: Work with Nigeria as a central actor in counterterrorism, regional stability and global energy security.

Nigeria’s size, resources, and influence in OPEC, the African Union, ECOWAS and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation uniquely position it to advance U.S. interests while stabilizing the African continent. A partnership with Nigeria, properly structured, can serve as America’s bridge to the Islamic world through the non-Arab Muslim societies of Africa and Asia, where pluralism and tolerance are stronger.

*5. Conclusion*

Mr. President, Nigeria is not Sudan or Libya. Any action that destabilizes this nation of over 230 million people risks collapsing the entire West African subcontinent, creating humanitarian, economic and geopolitical crises that would ultimately harm U.S. interests. The wiser course is partnership, not punishment; cooperation, not coercion.

I therefore urge your administration to reconsider Nigeria’s designation on the CPC list and adopt a forward-looking strategy anchored on mutual respect, economic partnership and shared security goals. Such an approach will promote peace and prosperity not only for our two nations but also for Africa and the world.

I must state to you at this juncture that the truth of Nigeria’s internal conflicts are complex socio-economic and security challenges as a result of failure of leadership, both at the national and subnational levels, not a case of state-sponsored religious persecution. Simplifying them into ‘Christians genocide’ is intellectually dishonest and geopolitically dangerous. Under this situation, therefore, what Nigeria needs from the West and the rest of the world is strategic partnership, not intimidation; dialogue and development, not drone diplomacy.

I once again congratulate you, Mr. President; wishing you good luck and praying that your administration brings prosperity, stability and peace to the United States and Nigeria, to the African Continent and to the entire World. Thank you, sir.

Jannik Sinner won the Paris Masters for the first time by defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) on Sunday as the four-time Grand Slam champion reclaimed his position atop the world rankings.

The 24-year-old’s maiden crown in Paris, coupled with incumbent world No 1 Carlos Alcaraz of Spain crashing out early in the tournament, will see Sinner return to the pinnacle of men’s tennis when the ATP rankings are updated on Monday.

The Italian first claimed the No 1 ranking in June last year and held it for 65 weeks until he lost the US Open title-match to Alcaraz in September.

LG Electronics Nigeria reaffirmed its leadership in innovation with the successful hosting of the LG Smart TV AI Press Conference.

Tagged, ‘From Smart Devices to Smart Living – The Age of Automation,’ LG unveiled its latest range of AI-powered Smart TVs-OLED, QNED, NanoCell, and UHD-all powered by LG ThinQ AI, the company’s proprietary platform that learns user preferences, responds to voice commands, and connects seamlessly with other LG appliances.

It also announced a strategic partnership with Ecobank Nigeria to launch a flexible Easy Monthly Installment (EMI) Scheme. This initiative allows customers to purchase LG Smart TVs and other home appliances while spreading payments over time, promoting both affordability and financial inclusion.

Speaking during the event, Mr. Choongbae Seok, General Manager, Media Entertainment Solutions, TV Division, highlighted LG’s vision of integrating AI into everyday life.

‘Our AI-powered products are designed to simplify living, enhance comfort, and create a connected lifestyle for our customers. With AI at the heart of our innovation, LG continues to redefine what it means to live smart,’ he said.

Also speaking, Mrs. Adeola Ogunyemi, Head of Distribution Channels and Sales at Ecobank Nigeria said, ‘This collaboration is more than a financial solution; it is a bridge between aspiration and reality. It allows more households and businesses to participate in the digital transformation shaping our continent.’

Let me begin by congratulating you, Mr. President, on your return to the leadership of the United States of America. You have taken over the reins at a critical juncture in world politics, when the choices of your administration’s diplomacy will largely determine whether today’s global crises are resolved or further exacerbated. It is in this context that I write to express my considered view on how your administration should approach relations with Nigeria, particularly in light of the recent statement attributed to you placing Nigeria on the List of Countries of Particular Concern (CPC).

1. Recognizing Reality and Mutual Interests

Mr. President, as you very well know, sound policy begins with an appreciation of reality. U.S.-Nigeria relations, like all international relations, must be grounded in mutual needs and interests, and on truth and reality. For America, the principal concerns are terrorism and global insecurity, the threat to its economic and technological preeminence and the challenge of managing these issues effectively. Nigeria, on her part, is beset by insecurity, corruption and severe economic hardship. Recognizing that these problems are mutually reinforcing, and that their resolution serves the interests of both nations, is the key to a successful partnership.

2. The Global Context

With the post-Cold War order and the decline of communism, the Western world under U.S. leadership entered a tense relationship with the Islamic world, particularly after 9/11. Meanwhile, globalization has shifted economic power eastward, with Asia and Europe increasingly challenging America’s dominance. In this emerging landscape, Africa – especially Nigeria – offers the United States its most viable opportunity for renewed strategic and economic engagement.

Africa’s vast population, abundant natural resources and moderate religious composition make it a region of immense promise. Nigeria, the continent’s largest democracy and economy, stands as its natural anchor. Its religious and ethnic diversity, though sometimes exploited politically, is largely tolerant and culturally grounded. The present crises of terrorism and banditry are exceptions born of poverty, misgovernance and failed policy – not of religion or ideology.

3. Understanding Nigeria’s Internal Crisis

Since 1999, successive Nigerian governments have promised prosperity, transparency and employment under democracy but have instead delivered widespread poverty, corruption and inequality. Less than 5% of Nigerians control over 95% of the nation’s wealth, while the vast majority struggle daily for survival. Disillusioned citizens, deprived of justice and opportunity, become easy recruits for insurgency and crime.

As criminologist Ted Gurr observed, ‘When expectations go up and realities go down, men rebel.’ Nigeria’s insecurity, therefore, is a reaction to failed governance and broken promises, not a symptom of religious persecution or intolerance. The U.S. must resist the temptation to interpret Nigeria’s instability through a sectarian lens; it is a political and socio-economic crisis at its core.

4. The Way Forward

Rather than punitive measures such as the CPC designation, your administration should adopt a constructive engagement strategy built on the following pillars:

Economic Cooperation: Encourage U.S. investments, technology transfer and initiatives to alleviate hunger, unemployment and inequality;

Political Support: Strengthen democratic institutions, the rule of law, and credible electoral processes to build trust between government and citizens; and

Strategic Partnership: Work with Nigeria as a central actor in counterterrorism, regional stability and global energy security.

Nigeria’s size, resources, and influence in OPEC, the African Union, ECOWAS and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation uniquely position it to advance U.S. interests while stabilizing the African continent. A partnership with Nigeria, properly structured, can serve as America’s bridge to the Islamic world through the non-Arab Muslim societies of Africa and Asia, where pluralism and tolerance are stronger.

*5. Conclusion*

Mr. President, Nigeria is not Sudan or Libya. Any action that destabilizes this nation of over 230 million people risks collapsing the entire West African subcontinent, creating humanitarian, economic and geopolitical crises that would ultimately harm U.S. interests. The wiser course is partnership, not punishment; cooperation, not coercion.

I therefore urge your administration to reconsider Nigeria’s designation on the CPC list and adopt a forward-looking strategy anchored on mutual respect, economic partnership and shared security goals. Such an approach will promote peace and prosperity not only for our two nations but also for Africa and the world.

I must state to you at this juncture that the truth of Nigeria’s internal conflicts are complex socio-economic and security challenges as a result of failure of leadership, both at the national and subnational levels, not a case of state-sponsored religious persecution. Simplifying them into ‘Christians genocide’ is intellectually dishonest and geopolitically dangerous. Under this situation, therefore, what Nigeria needs from the West and the rest of the world is strategic partnership, not intimidation; dialogue and development, not drone diplomacy.

I once again congratulate you, Mr. President; wishing you good luck and praying that your administration brings prosperity, stability and peace to the United States and Nigeria, to the African Continent and to the entire World. Thank you, sir.

Many Nigerians, including diplomats, lawyers and regional groups, have denounced American President Donald Trump’s threat of a military invasion of the country over alleged Christians’ genocide.

Diplomats, who spoke to Daily Trust yesterday, disagreed to any military action by the US, but urged the federal government to end the insecurity.

They also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint ambassadors.

President Tinubu’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, in a post on X yesterday, said his principal was well ahead of the orchestrated game unfolding in America. He said the president had on Thursday told the new service chiefs what Nigerians expected of them.

The Presidency has also disclosed that Tinubu will meet with the American president in the coming days to discuss the allegations.

Trump had on Friday redesignated Nigeria as a country of particular concern and warned that ‘if the Nigerian government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the USA will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country, ‘guns-a-blazing’, to completely wipe out the Islamic terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities.’

He had also instructed the US Department of War to prepare for possible action.

Pete Hegseth, US Secretary of War, had on X on Saturday said the Department of War was preparing for action.

Trump’s threat was sequel to allegations by an American lawmaker, Ted Cruz, in an X post on October 7, that 50,000 Christians had been killed since 2009 with 2,000 schools and 18,000 churches destroyed by what he called ‘Islamist’ armed groups. Cruz, however, did not cite the sources of his information.

In response, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had on Saturday rejected Trump’s description of Nigeria, insisting that the country remains a democracy grounded in constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and belief.

According to him, Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty.

He said since 2023, his administration had maintained an open and active engagement with Christian and Muslim leaders alike and continues to address security challenges affecting citizens across faiths and regions.

‘The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and beliefs for all Nigerians.

‘Religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity and shall always remain so. Nigeria opposes religious persecution and does not encourage it.

‘Nigeria is a country with constitutional guarantees to protect citizens of all faiths.

‘Our administration is committed to working with the United States government and the international community to deepen understanding and cooperation on protection of communities of all faiths,’ Tinubu had stated.

The Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement Saturday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, had said: ‘The Federal Government of Nigeria notes the recent remarks by U.S. President Donald J. Trump alleging large-scale killings of Christians in Nigeria and calling for the country’s designation as a ‘Country of Particular Concern.’

‘While Nigeria appreciates global concern for human rights and religious freedom, these claims do not reflect the situation on the ground. Nigerians of all faiths have long lived, worked, and worshipped together peacefully.

‘Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria remains committed to fighting terrorism, strengthening interfaith harmony, and protecting the lives and rights of all its people.

‘Nigeria will continue to engage constructively with the Government of the United States to deepen mutual understanding of regional dynamics and the country’s ongoing peace and security efforts.’

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Muslims also being killed – Middle Belt Forum

Speaking to Daily Trust yesterday, the president of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Dr Bitrus Pogu, noted that Muslims, just like Christians, are also killed by terrorists in the country.

He said the US threat was just a wake-up call for the Nigerian government to defeat the terrorists.

He said: ‘The U.S. has not issued any threat of military action. The U.S. placed Nigeria as a country of special concern.

‘That would mean sanctions, interventions to ensure that the government is forced to do the right thing. And if there should be any military action, that is to flush out the insurgents, it will not be one single country and that would only happen if our country refuses to do what it is supposed to do.

‘And I’ve always said that our military is up to the task, but there are saboteurs within the security forces. And from time to time, there have been, like during the late Buhari’s period, there have been issues of.lack of political will to do the job.

‘People are being massacred in their hundreds and nobody cares. Nobody is apprehended. The people who attack just walk away and they keep soldiers just watching over communities and these people would come and attack and the soldiers will be given instruction or do what and they will just be watching.

‘So, there’s complicity. And the unfortunate thing again is that all these insurgent groups in the North, whether they kill both Christians and Muslims.They said they are a Jihadist group and their target is non-Muslims. But they said any Muslim who cooperates with the non-Muslims will also be killed. So Muslims are also killed.’

ACF opposes invasion, says Nigerians of all faiths being killed

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), in a statement yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, cautioned against foreign invasion of a sovereign African country by the US.

The ACF also noted that Nigerians of all faiths were being killed by non-state actors in the country.

‘With its vast array of intelligence resources deployed all over, the US ought to know better. Those who know better ought to think and act better.

‘As with all patriotic Nigerians, members of the Arewa Consultative Forum have received with deep disappointment news of the designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the United States,’ he said.

‘Nigerians of all faiths are already suffering from attacks by non-state actors, including terrorists, bandits, insurgents and religious extremists in the North East, North Central, North West, South East and other parts of the country.

‘For years, ACF is aware that successive Nigerian governments have appealed to the US for assistance to no avail,’ he added.

He said any foreign support should focus on assisting the Nigerian military rather than target a specific religious group.

‘To think that someone, anyone, will come to protect Christians only is to engage in a quixotic mission.’

The ACF warned Nigerians to recall the lessons of history, citing interventions in ‘Vietnam, Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq and nearer home, there are Libya and the Sudan, the Sahelian states until they had a rethink, to list a few. To say the least, foreign military boots on Nigerian soil, whatever form it takes, will be messy. No rational thinking person will want that.’

The forum welcomed the federal government’s response, stating that it ‘deserves the support of all concerned.’

ACF further urged Nigerians to ‘engage in deep reflections over the matter and support the government as it responds to the matter,’ and called for regional solidarity from ‘Sister African and other countries.’

According to the statement: ‘Given its grave implications for the Nigeria project, ACF will continue to monitor, assess, and respond to further developments on the matter.’

No foreign power has right to invade a sovereign nation – Afenifere

The National Publicity Secretary of the pan-Yoruba sociopolitical organisation, Afenifere, Justice Faloye, in a chat with Daily Trust, said no foreign power has the right to invade another sovereign nation.

He implored the Tinubu administration to prevent foreign powers from provoking religious or tribal conflicts by restructuring Nigeria ‘according to the 2014 Confab to ensure equity and peace.’

He said: ‘It is unfortunate that the APC government over the last decade ignored calls for state police and devolution of power to tackle insecurity, according to the 2014 Confab. Those who fail to heed homely advice will learn from bitter experience by outsiders.

‘This gross negligence and breach of duty despite the worsening insecurity situation is now being misinterpreted, probably for mischievous advantage, to earn Nigeria an international pariah status that leaves us open to attack by foreign powers.

‘Under international law, no foreign power has the right to invade another sovereign nation, but we must not also give outsiders the excuse for militaristic humanitarianism, knowing our history of foreign Protectorate against slavery that resulted in our colonization.

‘The Nigerian government should therefore step up to its universally expected duties of securing its people by immediately giving the people their right of self-preservation through implementing state, local and community policing to stop the scourge of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping,’ he said.

‘Genocide narrative intended to destabilise Nigeria’

A lawyer in Calabar, Cross River State, Okoi Obono-Obla, in an interview yesterday, urged the federal government to be vigilant against external manipulation.

He accused the US of ‘deploying dubious diplomacy backed by arrogant militarism’ to inflame divisions within Nigeria under the guise of protecting Christians.

He said the so-called ‘Christian genocide’ narrative being pushed by Washington lacks logic, facts and context, ‘and is intended to destabilize the country.’

According to him, the U.S. threat to intervene militarily or violate Nigeria’s sovereignty under any pretext is a grave affront to international law.

‘Nigeria has never posed a threat to world’s peace. If America, which regularly experiences gun attacks in its own churches, has not invited foreign armies to intervene, then it should allow Nigeria to manage her internal challenges.’

Obono-Obla alleged that the U.S. had a long history of sabotaging sovereign nations through misinformation and proxy wars.

Citing Iraq, Libya, Serbia and Ukraine, he said America’s interventions had left chaos and unending conflicts in their wake.

‘Whenever a nation challenges America’s arrogance, it becomes a target for regime change,’ he said.

He further warned that Nigeria must not fall for what he described as ‘cowboy diplomacy’ aimed at fracturing the country’s stability.

‘When the inferno erupts, we will be left abandoned, just like every nation America has ‘helped,” he cautioned. ‘True sovereignty demands vigilance and unity.’

Also speaking, Barrister Leonard Anyogo, Notary Public and chairman of Good Governance Advocacy International, advised that Nigeria’s response to President Trump be measured and strategic.

‘Nigeria must be engaging and not combative against Trump. ‘We have to propose a security synergy.’

Diplomats speak

A former Nigerian Ambassador to Sudan, Suleiman Dahiru, described the threat of invasion by Trump as provocative.

He said the designation of Nigeria as a country of particular concern could strain diplomatic relations and disrupt Nigeria’s access to critical military support.

He also rejected the claims of religious persecution in Nigeria, saying: ‘We do not have religious crisis in Nigeria. There is nobody that can be prevented from practising whatever religion he/she wants to practice.’

He added: ‘Strictly speaking, I don’t think there is any state in Nigeria that has openly come out to say that they don’t want Christians. After all, the Sokoto caliphate has Reverend Father Hassan Kuka there. If there is a religious discrimination, that Catholic diocese wouldn’t have been allowed to establish.’

Dahiru, however, said: ‘The Nigerian government should have immediately sent the Foreign Minister of Nigeria who is a Muslim and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs who is a Christian to go and meet the American Secretary of State and explain exactly what is happening.’

A former Deputy Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations, Usman Sarki, told Daily Trust that the narrative of alleged genocide was driven by vested interests both abroad and within Nigeria.

‘Some Nigerians have long been pushing this narrative – it actually started here. It’s been sustained over the years, and now it has evolved into official foreign policy in countries like the US and Canada. Some Nigerians at home and in the diaspora are actively orchestrating it,’ he said.

Sarki warned that the implications could be far-reaching, particularly in diplomatic relations.

‘There will likely be a review of Nigeria’s relationship with the United States. This development clearly exposes a gap in our engagement with Washington. The US went ahead with its decision without hearing our government’s side or receiving any formal explanation. That points to a trust deficit between our president and theirs,’ he said.

He also criticized Nigeria’s foreign policy approach, describing it as reactive and lacking institutional depth.

‘We don’t manage our diplomatic relations in a professional or strategic manner. We wait for crises to erupt before responding, rather than anticipating and preparing for them. Nigeria currently has no ambassador or senior-ranking diplomat at the UN. We lack spokespersons in our foreign missions, which further weakens our voice on the global stage.’

Sarki cautioned that the situation could escalate further, saying that: ‘The Americans may now push the UN – through the Human Rights Council or the Security Council – to initiate investigations or other measures. This could lead to sanctions against individuals deemed responsible, followed by sanctions on the government, and eventually on the country itself. They appear ready to escalate step by step.’

Also in an interview with Daily Trust, a former Nigerian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Bulus Lolo, urged the federal government to wake up and tackle the insecurity.

He, however, expressed doubt that Trump would deploy military to Nigeria anytime soon.

He said: ‘The US has been a global policeman in other areas, be it human rights, be it free trade and democracy. It only changes when you have a different person in the White House whose agenda may differ from the other. So, are we witnessing a new reality? Certainly. But will America go to war in defence of Christians around the globe? It’s hard to say. I’m not aware, in recent history, that America has deployed its forces to defend any faith, but in this case, particularly Christians.

‘I believe it will be contingent on what the government does, and it will be within a time frame. I don’t know what sort of targets they’re going to pick. Could it be that they know where these terrorists are?’ he asked.

He called on the Nigerian government to act now and end the insecurity, noting that ‘We cannot justify the continued killings of Nigerians, very innocent, under circumstances that no one can defend, and there seems to be no end in sight.

‘So, my hope, my wish, and my call on the government is to wake up and do something. Let no further lives be lost, whether Christians, Muslims, or animists, or whatever the persuasion of an individual is.

‘No Nigerian should go to bed fearful for his safety and life and well-being. We do have the technology today to monitor, and I believe if we deploy better technology and put our ears to the ground, it’ll be a lot easier to pick up intelligence, very useful and credible intelligence that will change the tide.

‘And all it requires is the political will to act, because for far too long, like I said, innocent lives have been lost. We have had enormous economic losses.’

On his part, Bode Adekeye, a former Nigerian Ambassador to Kenya, expressed optimism that the issues would be resolved amicably at the top level.

He said diplomatic moves would have commenced since the declaration by the US, adding that the Nigerian government had to do something urgently to stop the bloodletting in the country.

The retired diplomat, however, felt a deployment of the US military to Nigeria would be far-fetched, insisting that the situation had not reached that level.

‘If you are talking of genocide, that should be a government policy, but it’s not a federal government policy, and we have a constitution. Nigeria is a secular country, and we have not adopted any particular religion.

‘Unfortunately, right now, there are no ambassadors in all countries, and obviously, these are the people who should be explaining to their host government about the situation in the country,’ he said.

Foreign lies shouldn’t divide us – Sharia Council

The Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, Kaduna State Chapter, yesterday condemned the US’ decision to classify Nigeria as a country of concern’ over alleged persecution of Christians.

Engineer Hassan AbdulRahman, Secretary of the Council, in a statement, said the move by the Trump administration reflects a ‘one-sided narrative’ that ignores the complex realities driving violence across Nigeria.

He urged Nigerians not to allow foreign ‘lies to divide us. Through understanding, dialogue, and cooperation, Nigeria can overcome its challenges and build a peaceful future for all. We advocate for unity among Nigeria’s diverse religious groups as a means to combat the violence plaguing the nation.

‘We must solve our differences without inviting bloodthirsty imperialists to destroy the only nation we have,’ he said.

The SCSN called on the federal government to respond firmly to the US designation, insisting that mere press releases were not enough to convey the seriousness of the situation.

‘Our position is clear we strongly condemn this decision by the US,’ AbdulRahman declared.

‘The Council is not happy with this development on allegations regarding Christian genocide in Nigeria. The Trump administration should have sought a balanced perspective on the situation before jumping to conclusions.’

He stressed that the nation’s insecurity stems from ‘a complex web of ethnic, political, and economic challenges,’ not a targeted campaign against Christians.

‘By statistics, it’s clear that Muslims are mostly the victims in various instances,’ he said.

‘Attributing these tensions solely to religious motivations oversimplifies the realities on the ground and undermines efforts toward national unity and peace. ‘Wherever Muslims are killed, it doesn’t concern the West or the U.S.’

What US ought to do – Kwankwaso

Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, presidential candidate of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) in the last general elections, in a statement yesterday asked the US to assist the Nigerian authorities with better cutting-edge technology to tackle insecurity rather than posing a threat that could further polarise the country.

‘It is important to emphasise that our country is a sovereign nation whose people face different threats from outlaws across the country. The insecurity we face does not distinguish based on religious, ethnic or political beliefs,’ he said.

He urged the federal government to consider appointing special envoys ‘from its distinguished diplomats to engage the American government. Additionally, it is necessary to appoint permanent ambassadors to represent Nigeria’s interests on the international stage.’

Sever diplomatic ties if threat is not withdrawn – Gumi

An Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, in a post on his verified Facebook page yesterday, condemned Trump’s threat as an insult to Nigeria’s sovereignty and called for an immediate diplomatic response.

‘For Trump to threaten a sovereign country with military attack is a profound disrespect to our authority, but we can rise above it,’ he wrote.

Gumi advised the federal government to summon the U.S. ambassador and demand a retraction, warning that failure to do so should lead to severing diplomatic ties.

He also emphasized the need for Nigeria to explore other options for economic growth and military partnerships.

Oba of Lagos hits Trump

The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, yesterday slammed Trump over allegation of Christians’ genocide in Nigeria.

Akiolu described the comment as incorrect and capable of creating unnecessary tension.

Speaking in his palace after marking his 82nd birthday, Akiolu said Nigerians of different faiths had co-existed peacefully for decades.

He said criminal activities and terrorism in parts of the country were not directed at any religion but were acts of misguided individuals and groups.

CAN, CUPP urge action on killings

The chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states, Reverend John Joseph Hayab, urged the federal government to take action against terrorism.

In an interview with Leadership newspaper, Hayab said that was the core message of Trump.

‘I think we are twisting this thing. There is no threat to attack Nigeria. The threat is to come to Nigeria and get rid of the terrorists, not to attack Nigeria. Unless we want to just use this to inflame a misconception.

‘Nobody in his right senses should deny that there are killings of Christians in Northern Nigeria. Nobody in his right senses should deny that there is persecution and maltreatment of Christians in Northern Nigeria,’ he said.

According to him, the situation has escalated to the point of attracting international legislative action, such as the bill by US Senator Ted Cruz, and now, commentary from a US President.

Also speaking in Abuja yesterday, the national secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties, Peter Ameh, said the CUPP would welcome foreign assistance if the federal government fails to end killings.

‘Our appeal is for decisive action. If the government does not take the necessary steps, we would welcome any lawful support that helps to end the activities of these armed groups,’ he said.

‘The violence must cease without delay. Displaced persons should be able to return to their homes, those responsible for attacks must be held accountable, and communities must be secured,’ he said.

He asked President Tinubu to direct the military and security agencies to intensify operations against armed groups nationwide.

Muslims, Christians suffered attacks – IMN

The Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), in a statement by Professor Abdullahi Danladi, said, ‘In reality, both Muslims and Christians have been victims of insecurity, banditry, terrorism, and government repression in equal measure. Villages in the predominantly Muslim North have been wiped out by armed groups just as churches and Christian communities have suffered attacks elsewhere.

‘These tragedies are not the result of an Islamic war against Christianity, but the consequence of a failed political order that thrives on corruption, poverty, injustice, and impunity.

Fani-Kayode: We’ll resist invasion

A former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, yesterday warned that Nigerians would resist any attempt by the US to invade the country.

In a post on X, Fani-Kayode said Trump was trying to provoke a crisis by branding Nigerians as killers of Christians.

He said Nigeria should not tolerate being treated as subordinates by Western powers.

He flayed Nigerians for what he called cowardice and complacency in the face of foreign intimidation, saying the situation would reveal the importance of strong and courageous leadership.

Trump doesn’t care about Nigerian Christians – Sowore

A former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, yesterday warned that the threat by Trump should not be celebrated.

He said: ‘The latest threat by U.S. President Donald Trump @POTUS to launch military action in Nigeria, allegedly to protect Christians, may sound appealing to some. Still, history has shown this to be perilous,’ Sowore wrote.

He noted that the US and its allies had a long record of military interventions that leave nations more unstable.

‘Tinubu to meet Trump’

Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, in a post on X on Saturday night said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would meet with Trump in the coming days to discuss the allegations of a Christian genocide in Nigeria.

He wrote: ‘Both President @officialABAT and President @realDonaldTrump have shared interests in the fight against insurgency and all forms of terrorism against humanity,’ Bwala wrote.

‘President Trump has assisted Nigeria a lot by authorising the sale of arms, and President Tinubu has adequately utilised that opportunity in the fight against terrorism, with massive results to show for it.

‘As for the differences as to whether terrorists in Nigeria target only Christians or all faiths, those would be discussed and resolved by the two leaders when they meet in the coming days, either in the State House or White House.’

Issues before genocide allegations

The campaign of Christian persecution against Nigeria gained traction after the country publicly condemned the killings in Gaza and supported two-state solution to the Middle East crisis.

In September, Vice President Kassim Shettima spoke forcefully in favour of Palestinians during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York

‘We do not believe that the sanctity of human life should be trapped in the corridors of endless debate. That is why we say, without stuttering and without doubt, that a two-state solution remains the most dignified path to lasting peace for the people of Palestine. For too long, this community has borne the weight of moral conflict. For too long, we have been caught in the crossfire of violence that offends the conscience of humanity. We come not as partisans, but as peacemakers. We come as brothers and sisters of a shared world, a world that must never reduce the right to live into the currency of devious politics. The people of Palestine are not collateral damage in a civilization searching for order. They are human beings, equal in worth, entitled to the same freedoms and dignities that the rest of us take for granted.’

Tinubu’s exclusion of at Trump’s meeting with African leaders

Trump, in July, did not invite Tinubu to the meeting he had with leaders from five African countries in Washington for discussions about business opportunities. The leaders of the countries invited are those of Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania and Senegal.

Trump’s forced immigration push

Nigeria had also in July opposed the Trump administration’s plan to deport thousands of undocumented migrants, including convicted criminals and individuals with unresolved immigration status, to Nigeria.

While Rwanda and South Sudan reportedly responded positively to preliminary discussions, Nigeria resisted the plan, refusing to accept migrants with no legal or national ties to the country. Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme in July, said: ‘You have to also bear in mind that the U.S. is mounting considerable pressure on African countries to accept Venezuelans to be deported from the U.S., some straight out of prisons. It would be difficult for countries like Nigeria to accept Venezuelan prisoners into Nigeria. We have enough problems of our own; we cannot accept Venezuelan deportees to Nigeria. We already have 230 million people.’

US 15% tariffs

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, had described the tariff as part of a shifting global environment but noted that Nigeria’s strategy remained focused on stability, capital mobilisation and private-sector growth.

‘We’re not reactionary – we’re focused on what is best for Nigeria,’ Oduwole said during an interview on Arise News on Monday. ‘Our response is to continue with what this administration with the Renewed Hope eight-point agenda has focused on.

‘The U.S. will remain one of our strategic trading partners. We have a commercial investment partnership which we launched on the 24th of June. In fact, the ambassador was in my office today with his team, just looking at the progress on that,’ she had said.

The National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, has urged Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, to deliver massive votes for the ruling party during the 2027 general elections.

Yilwatda gave the charge during the official defection ceremony of Governor Douye Diri and some PDP members in the State House of Assembly, on Monday.

The event held at Sampson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa, the state capital.

Yilwatda stated that Bayelsa is very critical for APC, charging the governor to strengthen the party’s base across the region. He said: ‘Take this broom as a symbol of authority and unity. Sweep out the PDP and ensure all votes are swept into the APC in 2027. We must secure a strong percentage of votes in Bayelsa.

‘Today, Bayelsa State is APC. Governor Diri is now the leader of our party in the state. The National Working Committee will liaise with him on all Bayelsa matters, and I will hold him responsible for the APC’s progress there,’ he said.

Also speaking, Vice President Kashim Shettima who led top APC figures to the ceremony, which drew large crowds of supporters, urged other leaders in the party to cue behind him for the party to make remarkable success.

Shettima, who stressed the importance of aligning with the centre in politics, said it was beneficial for Governor Diri to cross over to the APC.

He cited the first and second republic when leaders from then Eastern region aligned with the party at the centre, adding that most of the important government positions were ceded to the region.

The defection ceremony was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Dapo Abiodun (Ogun State), Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo State), Governor Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta State), Governor Hope Uzodimma (Imo State), and Governor Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom State).

The devlopment marks a major political shift in Bayelsa, a state that has long been a stronghold of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking after receiving APC symbols, Governor Diri said his decision was reached after extensive consultations with the people of the state.

He said: ‘Nearly six years ago, by your kind choice and by divine providence, I was elected Governor of Bayelsa State on the PDP platform, and you honoured me with a second term. I thank Bayelsans for the privilege of serving you.

‘Over time, the unity and common purpose that once sustained the party eroded. Despite our best efforts to reform and restore it, the internal dynamics made meaningful renewal increasingly difficult. That point is well documented.

‘After wide consultations and careful consideration, we have today formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC). This was a strategic, collaborative decision. While the justification for this decision may not be immediately apparent to some, you have my assurance that it was taken in the best interests of our people and for the accelerated development of the state.

‘I wish to express my profound gratitude to the national leadership and membership of the APC across all strata of the party for warmly welcoming us into the fold. Your hospitality has been truly remarkable, and we are delighted to be part of this great family.

‘Rest assured, we will work collaboratively with existing organs to strengthen the party for the serious work ahead, leveraging our collective strengths and goodwill to drive the party’s growth and success. Together, we can achieve important goals and take our party to greater heights.

‘I am grateful for the leadership and accommodation of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I am convinced that the fiscal and policy restructuring underway and the renewed focus on infrastructure and service delivery offer opportunities for the collective benefit of Nigerians. I pledge to continue to work constructively with the federal government and support President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

‘There is a biblical verse about a friend who sticks closer than a brother. President Tinubu has shown himself a steadfast supporter of the Ijaw people and a friend to Bayelsa State. Permit me to give a few concrete examples.

‘Our dear Nembe-Brass Road, which was on the drawing board for over six decades and for which I had met with the previous government on several occasions, received prompt federal attention after we raised it with the President just once. A contractor was mobilised to continue with the second phase of the project, which the state had started at a significant cost – a clear demonstration of what constructive engagement can achieve.

‘Again, when I flagged the excessive tax burden on importing our 60-megawatt gas turbines, the president graciously agreed a waiver to ease that pressure. These are examples of how partnership with the federal government can remove obstacles to development.

‘Another clear demonstration of the President’s commitment to our state’s prosperity is the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy’s strong endorsement of the Agge Deep Seaport project. We recognize the multiplier effect this investment will bring, including unlocking our marine resources, expanding trade and industry, creating jobs, and helping us diversify our economy away from oil and gas.

‘Given these actions, it was natural for us to align with leadership that is prepared to act in Bayelsa’s best interest. Our choice is driven by outcomes – by what advances our people’s welfare,’ he said.

Daily Trust recalls that PDP has lost four sitting governors to APC this year.

They include Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Peter Mbah (Enugu) and now Diri.

The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) took a dramatic turn on Monday when a faction loyal to Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), seized control of the party’s National Headquarters, located at Wadata Plaza, Abuja.

Amid internal turmoil within the party, the Wike faction appointed Muhammed Abdulrahman as acting chairman after suspending Umar Damagum.

Prior to the development, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party under Damagum had suspended Samuel Anyanwu and other officials loyal to Wike.

While addressing journalists in Abuja, the factional acting Chairman, Abdulrahman, said his mission was to reunite the party. He, however, later moved into the Secretariat, where he held his first meeting with Anyanwu and other officials of the Wike camp.

With supporters of the two camps at the party’s headquarters, police had been deployed to the area, with at least 10 Hilux vans, to prevent any clash between the two camps.

Photo Credit: Onyekachukwu Obi

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There is currently tension at Wadata Plaza, National Headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as the factional loyal to Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), moved to take over the secretariat.

Following the crisis rocking the party, the Wike faction appointed Muhammed Abdulrahman as acting chairman of the party.

The National Working Committee (NWC) under the leadership of Umar Damagum had suspended Samuel Anyanwu, National Secretary, and some other officials loyal to Wike.

In a retaliatory move, Wike faction also suspended Damagum and other key officials of the party and appointed Abdulrahman Mohammed as acting National Chairman.

Addressing journalists at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) office of the PDP, Mohammed said he was moving to the PDP headquarters.

‘We are all aware of the current pitiable state of our glorious party because of the actions and inactions of our leaders and members. From being the ruling party for 16 uninterrupted years to being an opposition party for over 10 years now at the national level, from being a formidable opposition to a now humbled opposition owing to the unexplainable, unconscionable defections of Governors, Legislators and Council Chairmen, et al.’

‘I have accepted to become Acting National Chairman at this difficult time through the mercy of God and instrumentality of very critical stakeholders of this party,’ he said.

He said his job was to heal the party of its wounds and end factionalisation, reposition the party and make it law abiding.

Mohammed later moved into the secretariat to address his supporters.

However, Damagum supporters were also seen at the party headquarters but the police moved in to prevent any clash.

Daily Trust sighted at least 10 Hilux vans of the police across the secretariat.