The African Union calls for respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and rejects Trump’s threats news

The African Union Commission expressed its concern over recent statements issued by the United States, in which it accused the Nigerian government of complicity in targeted killings of Christians, hinting at the possibility of military intervention under the pretext of “defending religious freedom.”

In an official statement, a copy of which was received by Al Jazeera Net, the Commission stressed its firm commitment to the principles of sovereignty, non-interference, religious freedom, and the rule of law, as stated in the Constitutive Act of the African Union and related instruments.

The statement affirmed that the Federal Republic of Nigeria is a pivotal member state of the Union, and plays an essential role in regional stability, combating terrorism, peacekeeping, and continental integration, stressing the need to respect its sovereign right to manage its internal affairs, including security and human rights, in accordance with its constitution and international obligations.

These statements come in the wake of threats made by US President Donald Trump, who hinted at the possibility of taking military measures against Abuja, accusing the Nigerian authorities of failing to protect Christians, which sparked a wave of criticism inside and outside Africa, amid warnings of the repercussions of such statements on regional security.

The African Union noted that Nigeria faces complex security challenges that affect its citizens of various religions, including violence from extremist groups, banditry, sectarian conflicts, and disputes over resources, calling for international and regional cooperation to support its capabilities in confronting these challenges, protecting all citizens, promoting human rights, and holding perpetrators of violence accountable.

In a clear position, the Commission rejected what it described as “discourse that exploits religion as a weapon,” considering that simplifying security challenges within a religious framework may hinder effective solutions and threaten the stability of societies.

The Commission called on international partners, led by the United States, to adopt diplomatic dialogue, exchange intelligence information, and build capabilities, instead of unilateral threats of military intervention, which may undermine continental peace efforts and contradict the principles of the African Union in managing conflicts peacefully.

The statement concluded by affirming the African Union’s readiness to provide support to Nigeria through the peace and security architecture, capacity building programs, and strategic partnerships, within the framework of respecting national sovereignty and promoting sustainable development.