The United States chapter of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress has written to the leadership of the US Congress, urging caution over recent claims of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria.
The letter follows US President Donald Trump’s recent threat to deploy American military forces to Nigeria if the alleged genocide against Christians is not stopped.
In the letter dated November 5, 2025, and addressed to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, 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 rather than military intervention.
It said it recognised America’s commitment to global religious freedom but warned against what it described as “distorted narratives” about Nigeria’s security situation.
The letter, signed by the chapter’s chairman, Prof. Tai Balofin, expressed concern that the recent classification of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” by Trump could be influenced by misinformation and partisan politics within Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Balofin explained that while violent incidents have tragically claimed many lives, they stem largely from long-standing communal and resource-based conflicts between farmers and herders in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, rather than targeted religious persecution.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated impartial and decisive leadership in addressing insecurity.
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“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 their prosecution under terrorism and murder laws,” it said.
The group maintained that such actions reflect Tinubu’s “uncompromising policy against impunity,” insisting that his government’s approach to justice and peace is inclusive and not based on religion.
The APC USA also warned 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.
“Rather than consider military measures, we urge the U.S. Congress to prioritise diplomatic and cooperative solutions.
“Judicial collaboration, interfaith dialogue programmes, and verified diaspora engagement are more sustainable paths to peace,” he said.
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 ended with an appeal to US lawmakers to continue strengthening the long-standing partnership between Nigeria and the United States, anchored on shared democratic values and respect for human rights.