Falana Slams Trump’s Threats, Says US Has Never Saved Any Nation
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, has criticised US President Donald Trump’s threat to strike Nigeria over alleged attacks on Christians, saying the United States has never successfully intervened to rescue any country during conflicts.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Falana called Trump’s claims misleading and a reflection of the former president’s disdain for Africa.
Trump had directed the Pentagon to “prepare for action” against alleged killings of Christians in Nigeria, warning that strikes would be “fast, vicious, and sweet” if the government failed to act.
Falana dismissed the threat, pointing to America’s record in Iraq, Syria, Libya, and Afghanistan as evidence of failed interventions.
He also noted the US’s domestic gun violence, questioning its credibility to lecture Nigeria on security.
“It is worrying that Nigeria has reached a point where foreign powers feel they can dictate military action here,” Falana said. “China and the European Union have both noted there is no proof of Christian genocide in Nigeria. Any external attack would not be quick; the challenges here are widespread.”
He accused the US of pursuing self-interest in Africa, citing failed attempts to establish a military base in Iraq and plans to use Nigeria as a destination for deportees.
Falana urged the Nigerian government to focus on strengthening internal security rather than relying on foreign powers.
Falana also said Trump has “absolute contempt” for Africans. “This is not surprising. His statements on Nigeria and South Africa show a long history of disdain for leading African nations,” he said.
He dismissed the claim that over 3,000 Christians had been killed in Nigeria, stressing that most violence is not religiously motivated but driven by disputes over land, resources, and ransom-seeking by criminals.
“In states like Benue and Plateau, killings are mostly about land conflicts and grazing disputes. Portraying Nigeria’s insecurity as a religious war is misleading and harmful.”
He called on Nigerians and the international community to focus on the root causes of violence rather than spreading divisive narratives.
“Instead of reacting to Trump’s statements, we should ask how we can address our own failings and strengthen security within the country,” he added.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
