“It is obvious opposition are behind Trump’s threats against Nigeria” – Wike
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has broken his silence, accusing opposition leaders of using religion as a political tool to divide the country, following claims by US President Donald Trump that Christians are being targeted in Nigeria.
Opposition Behind Trump’s Allegation – Wike says
Speaking on the development, Wike alleged that the opposition was influencing Trump’s narrative on Christian persecution.
“It is very obvious, and I have said this,” the minister stated, describing the move as “politics too far.”
Wike did not disclose specific names of opposition figures but stressed that the claims had a political motive rather than being grounded in reality.
Political Motive Behind Religious Accusations
The FCT minister noted that the opposition, aware that no party is currently strong enough to defeat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 election, may be attempting to divide the country along religious lines.
He warned that such actions go beyond regular political contesting.
“The only problem in Nigeria today is the political style of President Tinubu,” Wike said, pointing out that opposition collapse has left them with few options other than stirring division.
Government Officials Are Christian, Contradicting Genocide Claim
Wike questioned how a government supposedly killing Christians could retain top officials from the same faith, citing the Chief of Defence Staff, the Inspector General of Police, and the director of the State Security Service as examples.
He insisted that no Nigerian leader supports the killing of any group.
Trump Labels Nigeria as Country of Particular Concern
On October 31, 2025, Trump announced that Nigeria has been designated a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA).
The designation highlights alleged systemic violations of religious freedom in the country.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian government countered these claims, stating that the allegations do not reflect the true situation on the ground.
About the Author
