Aloy Ejimakor, Special Counsel to Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has supported the recent designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by United States President Donald Trump.
Over the weekend, Trump placed Nigeria on the CPC list, citing reports of mass killings and alleged genocide against Christians, particularly in the northern part of the country.
He also warned of possible military action against Islamic extremists said to be responsible for the attacks on Christian communities.
‘Only the Guilty Should Feel Threatened’
Reacting through a post on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Ejimakor said that Trump’s decision should not alarm anyone except those who have something to hide.
He stressed that the designation was not an attack on Nigeria but rather an international call to action against religious persecution.
According to him, the CPC label provides an opportunity for the United States to use its influence to support Nigeria in tackling the menace of religious extremism and terrorism.
He wrote: “The designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern is intended to unlock the full potential of American soft power and place it at the disposal of Nigeria in the fight against religious terror. If you feel threatened by it, then you’re a suspect. Simple!”
Background on the Designation
The Country of Particular Concern status is given by the U.S. government to nations found to have engaged in or tolerated severe violations of religious freedom.
Nigeria was previously listed under the CPC category in 2020 but was later removed. Trump’s renewed attention to the issue has since sparked widespread debate among Nigerians and international observers.