Tensions flared in the House of Representatives on Tuesday as lawmakers debated a motion aimed at countering what they described as “misleading international narratives on religious killings in Nigeria”, following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments labeling Nigeria a “country of particular concern.”

The motion, sponsored by Hon. Olamijuwonlo Ayodeji Alao-Akala (APC, Ogbomoso North, Ogbomoso South, and Oriire Federal Constituency, Oyo State), sparked uproar on the floor, forcing the House into a closed-door executive session after repeated calls of “order!” and heated exchanges across party lines.

Introducing the motion under Order 8 Rule 5, Alao-Akala described it as a matter of urgent national importance, urging lawmakers to reject what he termed “foreign media propaganda and distorted Western narratives” that portray Nigeria as a nation plagued by religious killings.

“Mr. Speaker, I seek the leave of the House to suspend the relevant rules to take this matter of public importance on addressing misleading international narratives on religious killings and strengthening domestic and diplomatic engagement for national cohesion,” Alao-Akala said.

The motion was seconded by Hon. Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya (APC, Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency, Kwara State), who called it “an all-important national issue that demands immediate intervention.”

However, as Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas called for a voice vote, the debate descended into chaos, with some members accusing colleagues of politicizing the matter. The Speaker repeatedly urged order, shouting, “Order! Order, Honourable Members! Sit down!”

Amid the escalating tension, the Speaker directed that the House move into an executive session. The proposal was moved by Hon. Oswaembale Okumo (PDP, Presidential/Confederal Constituency) and seconded by another member. Members voted in favor, and journalists and aides were ordered out of the gallery.

The controversy follows Trump’s recent statement accusing the Nigerian government of failing to protect Christians and warning that the U.S. could cut aid or “deploy its Department of War” against terror groups if religious persecution continues. His comments have drawn sharp criticism from Nigerian political and religious leaders, who denounced them as reckless interference in the country’s internal affairs.