A Nigerian military personnel serving in the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force has made a bold declaration against former US President Donald Trump's threat of military action in Nigeria, stating he would rather resign than participate in any operation against his home country.
Standing Against Military Intervention
The controversy began when Donald Trump issued a statement calling on the Nigerian government to immediately address what he described as genocide against Christians in Nigeria. Trump warned that failure to act promptly could lead to US military intervention in the African nation.
In response to these threats, Opeyemi Falegan David, a Nigerian-born member of the UK Air Force, publicly expressed his opposition. "If Trump gets involved in Nigerian case, then United Nations get involved. Imagine being ordered to wage war in your home country. I will rather quit the military than fight in my home country," Falegan stated in his initial social media post.
Military Career and Political Aspirations
During an exclusive interview with Legit.ng, Falegan revealed extensive details about his military service and personal background. The Ekiti State native disclosed that he has participated in multiple international conflicts, including deployments to Iran, Afghanistan, and Sudan.
Despite his loyalty to the Royal Air Force, Falegan emphasized his unwavering connection to Nigeria. "I have been loyal to the service all through. I have been involved in many wars... But Nigeria is my own home country; it will be a bit difficult to participate in such invasion," he explained.
The military professional also shared his political ambitions, revealing his interest in becoming Ekiti State governor someday. "I am a philanthropist and a security expert, also the gubernatorial candidate from Ekiti State. My background and experiences in the state have likely influenced my values and decisions as a leader," Falegan disclosed.
International Law Perspective
Falegan provided a professional analysis of the legal implications surrounding Trump's threats, citing international law. He referenced Article 2 of the United Nations Charter, which establishes the principle of territorial sovereignty and prohibits the use of force against another country.
"Under international law, every state is sovereign. That is the principle of territorial sovereignty, which prohibits the use of force against another country," Falegan stated, emphasizing that no country, including the United States, has the legal right to meddle in another nation's internal affairs.
He acknowledged only two exceptions where foreign intervention might be justified: self-defense situations and cases involving mass atrocities like genocide and crimes against humanity. Falegan concluded by urging governments to protect their citizens to prevent circumstances that might invite international interference.
The Nigerian government, under President Tinubu's leadership, has already dismissed Trump's genocide claims, maintaining that the government recognizes all faiths in the country and rejects allegations of religious persecution.
