A heated debate broke out in the Nigerian Senate on Monday after Senate President Godswill Akpabio distanced himself from claims that he replied to U.S. President Donald Trump over alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria.
Akpabio described the viral report as fake, saying he never issued any response to Trump.
“I never replied to President Trump over allegations of Christian genocide. I’ve petitioned the police and the DSS to find the character behind the news,” he stated.
“It’s the presidency that’ll answer President Trump. Who am I to answer President Trump?” he added.
Senate exchange over Trump’s remarks
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, however, took a different stance. He expressed confidence in speaking openly, saying, “Mr. President, Nigeria is a sovereign nation.
“Don’t be scared. I’m not scared of Trump. I can say my mind. I’m a parliamentarian and Deputy Senate President. I can speak. I’m not scared of Trump.”
In response, Akpabio cautioned him against being misrepresented, advising, “Get something; don’t allow people to ascribe what you didn’t say to you.”
Barau agreed that Akpabio was wrongly accused but insisted that the Senate should not shy away from defending Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“Yes, you didn’t make that statement. That’s correct, but you shouldn’t be scared of saying anything,” he added.
Tense end to Senate session
The discussion grew more intense when Akpabio asked rhetorically, “If you want me to say it now, should I say?” Barau stood firm, declaring, “We’re not scared of Trump. We’re a sovereign nation. He’s spreading lies about our country. What he’s saying is not correct.”
The heated session ended with Akpabio directing the Senate Clerk, “Eh, Clerk, please delete what the Deputy Senate President has said. He spoke out of tune.”
The exchange revealed a rare public disagreement between Nigeria’s top lawmakers over how to address international criticism, particularly from former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Watch the video here…
VIDEO: Akpabio denies responding to Trump’s military threat
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has denied making any response to U.S. President Donald Trump, describing reports suggesting otherwise as fake and capable of causing a diplomatic misunderstanding.
Akpabio dismissed… pic.twitter.com/EEgWDh22gF
— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) November 5, 2025