The coalition criticized the Nigerian government for deploying “propaganda” to deflect international concerns about insecurity, emphasizing that Christians remain the primary victims of terrorist violence.

The Global Coalition for Security and Democracy in Nigeria has issued a formal appeal to the White House, urging President Donald Trump to expedite military and diplomatic measures in response to what it describes as a “Christian genocide” unfolding in Nigeria.

In an open letter addressed to the U.S. President and signed by the coalition’s Global Coordinator, Comrade Frederick Odorige, the organization—which is registered in the U.S. by Nigerians in the diaspora supporting security and democracy—expressed strong support for America’s recent designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern and its commitment to confronting terrorist groups within the country.

A copy of the letter was sent to Mr. Brian Mast, Chairman of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee.

The coalition reiterated allegations that the Nigerian government uses propaganda to obscure the extent of insecurity, asserting that Christians are the main targets of terrorist attacks, particularly in the northern and middle belt regions, where terrorists seek land appropriation and the establishment of an Islamic state. The terrorists have reportedly extended their operations to predominantly Christian southern regions.

The organization further criticized Nigerian political and religious leaders for their inaction, claiming that, over the past 15 years, efforts to curb violence have been insufficient. It pointed out that Muslim leaders in the north have not taken substantive measures to end criminal activities, implying complicity or neglect.

The coalition also highlighted the recent designation of Nigeria by Pope Leo XIV as a country with severe Christian discrimination, deeming this acknowledgment both accurate and diplomatically understated.

According to the letter, regional and national efforts to downplay the crisis amount to renewed propaganda. It condemned the Nigerian government’s attempts to attract foreign investment while refusing to seek international assistance to combat terrorism, noting that citizens are paying taxes that fund terrorist activities.

The group criticized Vice President Kashim Shettima for failing to fulfill his campaign pledge to lead anti-terrorism efforts. Since assuming office in May 2023, it states, Shettima has remained silent on this promise, even as the death toll in Nigeria surpasses 14,000, including casualties from previous administrations.

Furthermore, the coalition condemned Nigeria’s handling of terrorism financing, citing the release of terrorist financier names by the United Arab Emirates in 2021, which the Nigerian government has allegedly ignored.

Urging the United States to act decisively, the coalition referenced America’s proven capacity for precise military interventions, citing operations such as the raid that killed Osama bin Laden and efforts to free an American citizen kidnapped in Niger State. It emphasized that such operations were conducted without compromising Nigerian sovereignty.

To address the crisis, the coalition requested measures including targeted military strikes, sanctions on terrorism sponsors, visitation of internally displaced persons (IDP) camps by U.S. officials, and asset seizures linked to officials involved in corruption or terrorism.

It called for the complete eradication of terrorist groups, their financiers, and sanctions against individuals involved in suppressing the rights of Nigerians.

The coalition expressed support for the U.S. President’s recent stance, asserting that a declaration of genocide against Christians in Nigeria warrants decisive action, viewing such measures as an answer to the prayers of millions.

Warning that delay could exacerbate the crisis, it concluded: “Sir, if action is delayed, tomorrow may be too late. Nigerians need urgent help. A stitch in time saves nine.”

Earlier reports by SaharaReporters described an attack in Eruku town, Kwara State, where terrorists stormed a Christ Apostolic Church, killing three worshippers and abducting several, including the pastor. Witnesses reported that the assailants opened fire during a meeting, causing panic and casualties.