Massive Anti-Trump Protest Rocks Kano Over Genocide Claims
Hundreds of Muslim groups and their supporters staged a major demonstration in Nigeria's northern city of Kano on Saturday, vehemently rejecting recent accusations by US President Donald Trump that Nigeria is permitting a Christian genocide. The protesters marched through the streets carrying placards featuring Trump's image and chanting anti-US slogans in what became a powerful display of unity against foreign intervention.
The demonstration remained peaceful throughout as participants moved from the historic Kano Central Mosque to Sabon Gari area, with security personnel closely monitoring the proceedings. Many of the placards clearly stated "There is no Christian genocide in Nigeria" while most chants were delivered in the Hausa language, reflecting the local context of the protest.
Government and Religious Leaders Respond to Trump's Threats
The Nigerian government has categorically dismissed Trump's allegations, with Information Minister Mohammed Idris describing the US President's statements as misguided. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Washington's characterization fails to reflect the complex realities of Nigeria's security landscape, where both Christians and Muslims face violence from various armed groups.
Adding to the diplomatic pressure, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, called on President Bola Tinubu to engage diplomatically with Washington. He specifically requested a 90-day grace period to demonstrate concrete progress in countering terrorism, warning that any military confrontation could bring untold hardship to innocent Nigerians.
International Community Weighs In on Nigeria Crisis
The situation has drawn significant international attention, with China and Russia both expressing opposition to any foreign military action in Nigeria. Beijing's Foreign Ministry issued a statement emphasizing that Nigeria's sovereignty must be respected and urged dialogue and cooperation rather than coercion.
The African Union has echoed this position, cautioning that external intervention could further destabilize the West African region. This international support comes as Nigeria grapples with years of insecurity, including Islamist insurgency in the northeast, communal clashes in the Middle Belt, and armed banditry in the northwest.
Recent research by Amnesty International revealed that more than 1,800 people were killed in the southeast alone between 2021 and 2023, with both Christians and Muslims among the victims. This data underscores the complex nature of Nigeria's security challenges that transcend religious boundaries.
