By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has expressed strong concern over a report attributed to former U.S. President Donald J. Trump, in which he was said to have threatened possible military action in Nigeria over alleged religious killings. The comments were published by the Vanguard Newspaper on November 2, 2025.
In a press release signed by Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, Executive Director of FENRAD, the organisation stated that while it condemns all acts of violence against Nigerian citizens—regardless of religious or ethnic identity—it rejects any suggestion of foreign military intervention in Nigeria’s internal affairs.
According to FENRAD, Nigeria’s sovereignty must remain intact, and solutions to insecurity must be rooted in justice, accountability, and strengthened national institutions rather than “external intimidation or militarization.”
The organisation acknowledged ongoing concerns over religiously motivated violence in certain parts of the country, particularly in the Middle Belt and North-West, but emphasized that the Nigerian government has the responsibility to protect all citizens equally. It urged the government to intensify security measures and ensure unbiased prosecution of perpetrators.
FENRAD also appealed to the international community to adopt diplomatic and cooperative approaches in addressing human rights concerns, calling for improved interfaith dialogue, security reform partnerships, and development-based peacebuilding.
The group further advised media professionals and citizens to avoid sensational reactions that could escalate tensions, stressing the need for verified and responsible public communication.
FENRAD reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, justice, and human dignity across Nigeria, urging collaboration among government agencies, civil society, faith leaders, and international partners toward a secure and inclusive society.
Newspot Nigeria will continue monitoring updates on this developing conversation surrounding human rights and international diplomacy in Nigeria.
Newspot Nigeria
FULL STATEMENT
PRESS RELEASE
FENRAD Condemns Threats of Foreign Military Action and Calls for Constructive Engagement on Human Rights and Security in Nigeria
Date: November 2, 2025
For Immediate Release
The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has received with deep concern reports credited to former U.S. President Donald J. Trump, as published by Vanguard Newspaper on November 2, 2025, in which he allegedly threatened possible military action in Nigeria over alleged killings of Christians.
While FENRAD strongly condemns all forms of religious persecution, extrajudicial killings, and violence against innocent citizens—irrespective of faith or ethnic background—the organisation equally rejects threats of foreign military intervention in Nigeria’s sovereign affairs.
1. Respect for Sovereignty and Rule of Law
Nigeria remains a sovereign and independent nation. Any external threat of armed intervention, especially from private individuals or political figures without official U.S. government mandate, is unacceptable and potentially destabilizing. FENRAD urges the Nigerian government to assert its sovereignty through diplomatic engagement and to ensure that the nation’s image is not further tarnished internationally.
2. Human Rights and Religious Freedom Must Be Protected
FENRAD acknowledges that religiously motivated and communal violence persists in parts of Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt and North-West regions. The Nigerian government must intensify efforts to protect all citizens—Christians, Muslims, and others alike—from sectarian attacks, and must prosecute perpetrators without bias.
We reiterate that justice, inclusion, and accountability are the most effective tools for building peace and countering extremism, not external threats or militarization.
3. Call for Responsible Global Engagement
FENRAD calls on the international community, including the United States and its political leaders, to engage Nigeria through diplomacy, partnership, and development assistance rather than intimidation or threats of violence. Constructive cooperation on security reform, human rights, and interfaith dialogue will yield better outcomes for Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
4. Appeal to the Media and Public
We urge the Nigerian media and citizens to approach such reports with caution and verification, ensuring that public discourse remains fact-based and devoid of sensationalism that could inflame religious or ethnic tensions.
Conclusion
FENRAD reaffirms its commitment to promoting peace, justice, and human rights across Nigeria. We call on all stakeholders—government, faith leaders, civil society, and the international community—to work collaboratively toward a peaceful, inclusive Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of religion or ethnicity, can live in safety and dignity.
Signed,
Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor
Executive Director, FENRAD Nigeria
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.fenrad.org.ng
