Barau Slams Trump Over Remarks on Nigeria, Demands Apology

Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, has criticised United States President Donald Trump for describing Nigeria as a disgraced country and threatening military action over alleged persecution of Christians.

Barau, in a video that circulated on Friday, faulted Trump’s comments, describing them as a breach of international law and diplomatic conduct. He insisted that no foreign leader has the right to issue threats against Nigeria, urging Trump to withdraw his statement and offer an apology.

The lawmaker said that if the US president was genuinely concerned about any issue in Nigeria, he should take the proper diplomatic route through the United Nations rather than issuing public threats. He noted that Nigeria remains a sovereign nation and would not be intimidated by foreign powers.

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) and the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) also condemned Trump’s comments, accusing him of attempting to interfere in Nigeria’s internal affairs. NEF spokesperson, Professor Abubakar Jiddere, said the North would resist any external influence disguised as humanitarian concern. He alleged that Washington’s interest in Nigeria was driven by economic motives rather than human rights, referencing past US interventions in countries like Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan.

Similarly, MACBAN’s National President, Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, rejected claims linking the group to terrorism or religious extremism. He described the accusations as false and politically motivated, saying the association was preparing documents to defend its reputation. He maintained that MACBAN is a legitimate body that advocates for pastoralists across the country.

The Arewa Youth Consultative Council (AYCC) also joined the condemnation, saying the threat from Trump was economically motivated. Its National President, Zaid Ayuba, claimed that the US was only protecting its economic interests and reacting to Nigeria’s growing partnerships with other world powers.

The youth leader called on the Nigerian government to engage in diplomatic discussions to prevent further tension. He warned that any foreign intervention could destabilise the region and cause suffering for innocent citizens.

The controversy followed a recent statement by President Trump during a White House briefing, where he threatened to take action against Nigeria if attacks on Christians continued. The Nigerian government has yet to issue an official response to the development.