A Nigerian man has sparked intense online debate after urging his fellow citizens not to celebrate the recent military action by former United States President Donald Trump against alleged ISIS terrorists in Sokoto state.
Viral Post Questions US Intentions
The controversy began when Mustapha Mohammed Gembu took to his Facebook page to share a detailed critique. His post, which has since gone viral, challenged the narrative of America as a protector, particularly of Christians in Nigeria.
Gembu pointedly asked how a nation that cannot protect its own Christian citizens from rampant gun violence—citing over 160 recent deaths—could guarantee the safety of Nigerians. He argued that constant reports of a "Christian genocide" in Nigeria have provided America an opportunity to exploit the country's religious divisions.
Highlighting Global Hypocrisy
The analysis delved into perceived global contradictions in US foreign policy. Gembu reminded readers that American-made weapons are used in conflicts affecting Christians elsewhere, such as in Palestine and the Ukraine-Russia war.
"Do you believe you are more important to America than Christians in Palestine, the birthplace of Jesus?" he questioned. He also referenced Venezuela, a predominantly Christian country facing American military pressure, as another example undermining the claim of US-led Christian protection.
A crucial part of his argument focused on the lack of evidence. He noted that Nigerians have seen no proof of the alleged ISIS terrorists killed in the "powerful and devastating" attacks Trump claimed to have ordered. This absence of verification raises significant doubts about the operation's true nature and success.
A Call for Reflection Over Celebration
Gembu warned against ethnic and religious bias in the reactions to the airstrikes. He suggested that some celebrations were rooted in the belief that the targets were primarily Hausa-Fulani Muslims.
"Do you think American bombs and missiles can distinguish between Christians and Muslims?" he asked. "Are American weapons anti-Fulani, anti-Hausa, or anti-Muslim, or are they simply weapons of destruction?"
He concluded with a powerful appeal for national introspection, urging Nigerians to move beyond blind celebration on social media and consider the broader geopolitical manipulations at play. He framed the situation as one where Nigerians risk being used as "tools of manipulation" in America's strategic interests.
Mixed Reactions from Netizens
The post elicited strong and divided reactions online. Some users supported Gembu's skeptical view, while others defended the international intervention against terrorism.
User Mdooter Ferdinand Zaakaa commented dismissively, "Eeeeen, let him try his luck in Nigeria." Another, Ibrahim Bello, called for a stronger national stance, suggesting President Tinubu should designate the US a "Country of Particular Concern (CPC)" and focus on domestic security.
However, other users challenged Gembu's perspective directly. Japhet Istifanus responded, "But why is it disturbing you guys? Or are you one of them," implying sympathy for the terrorists.
The debate underscores the deep complexities surrounding foreign military intervention in Nigeria. It touches on issues of sovereignty, evidence-based reporting, religious dynamics, and the often contradictory nature of global power politics. As discussions continue, the call for proof and deeper critical thinking about the Sokoto airstrikes remains a central theme.
