Gumi to Tinubu: Cut Ties With U.S. if Trump Doesn’t Withdraw Threat

 

By Augustine Felix, Oriontimes

Renowned Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider Nigeria’s diplomatic relationship with the United States if former U.S. President Donald Trump does not retract his alleged threat against Nigeria following the country’s re-designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged religious persecution.

The cleric, reacting to recent comments and policy indicators attributed to Trump surrounding Nigeria’s religious-rights record, argued that Nigeria must defend its sovereignty and should not tolerate external intimidation under the guise of human-rights protection.

Gumi

insisted that any international stance implying coercive or military-style intervention in Nigeria’s domestic affairs is unacceptable. He urged the Federal Government to take a firm diplomatic position should the rhetoric remain unchanged.

 “Nigeria must stand tall and insist on dignity and sovereign equality. We cannot allow threats or intimidation from foreign leaders or interest groups to dictate our internal reality,” he said in his statement.

The cleric further accused certain religious figures and organisations in Nigeria of collaborating with foreign entities to create narratives that portray the nation as persecuting Christians, a development he believes may have influenced the U.S. decision.

Gumi’s warning comes amid heated reactions from religious institutions, advocacy groups, and political commentators following Washington’s decision to place Nigeria back on the CPC list. Critics argue the move is politically charged, while human-rights groups say it underscores legitimate concerns.

As of press time, the Federal Government has not issued an official response to Gumi’s call or the broader concerns surrounding Nigeria’s U.S. relations under the designation.

Diplomatic analysts warn the situation could reshape Nigeria-U.S. ties historically anchored by security cooperation, trade, and democratic engagement, if tensions escalate.

The unfolding scenario continues to deepen debates around faith, foreign policy, and national identity at a sensitive moment in Nigeria’s political space.