The Federal Government on Wednesday attributed the recent surge in terror attacks, including the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi and the assault on worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State, to remarks made by United States officials, amid growing public outrage over the incidents.
George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, said that posts by former President Donald Trump alleging “Christian genocide” in Nigeria and suggesting the possible deployment of US troops had “inadvertently emboldened opportunistic violent groups” to target vulnerable civilians.
Evolution of the attacks
Speaking on the evolution of violent extremism, banditry, and ongoing security challenges, Akume noted that prior to these statements, insurgent networks had been largely weakened and reduced to isolated cases of banditry.
“Recent pronouncements from the United States have inadvertently emboldened opportunistic violent groups seeking to exploit international narratives and make bold statements by attacking soft targets,” Akume said on Wednesday.
He emphasized that the government remains committed to addressing security threats and restoring stability, while urging caution in how international commentary may affect local dynamics.
“Before these statements, insurgency structures had been significantly degraded and reduced to isolated banditry.
“This resurgence underscores the vital need for collaboration, not public labelling, between Nigeria and the United States.” he noted.
Trump designates Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern
Recall that the president of the United States had recently labelled Nigeria a country of particular concern over the alleged Christian genocide in the country.