A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Joe Igbokwe, has criticised former United States President Donald Trump over his recent threat of military action against Nigeria, urging him to withdraw his statement immediately.
Trump had reportedly warned that the United States might intervene militarily in Nigeria over alleged attacks on Christians, a claim that has generated widespread outrage and concern among Nigerians.
Reacting in a post on his Facebook page on Sunday, Igbokwe condemned Trump’s statement, describing it as arrogant and disrespectful to Nigeria’s sovereignty. He said the former US leader should confine his influence to his own country and not attempt to intimidate others.
“President Trump is the president of America and not the president of Nigeria,” Igbokwe wrote. “He may be a giant in America but not in Nigeria. Let President T know this and have inner peace. Trump can carry his arrogance to other countries but not Naija.”
The APC stalwart added that Nigeria is an independent nation that cannot be bullied by any foreign power, no matter how strong. He called on world leaders to show mutual respect and avoid making provocative statements that could strain international relations.
Igbokwe’s reaction comes amid growing tension and public debate following Trump’s alleged comments. Many Nigerians have described the threat as an insult to the country’s dignity, while others argue that it highlights the international community’s concern about persistent insecurity, particularly attacks by bandits and insurgents in parts of the North.
Reports indicate that the Nigerian presidency is taking the situation seriously. According to sources, President Bola Tinubu is expected to meet with Trump in the coming days to discuss the issue and prevent further diplomatic escalation.
Igbokwe, a former aide to ex-Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has often been vocal on national issues. His latest comments reflect growing calls from Nigerian political and religious leaders urging the government to defend the country’s sovereignty and demand a formal retraction of Trump’s alleged threat.
As the situation unfolds, Nigerians are watching closely to see how the Tinubu administration will manage the diplomatic fallout and reinforce Nigeria’s position as an independent and respected nation on the global stage.
