A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ayekooto Akindele, has criticized US President Donald Trump for placing Nigeria on the Country of Particular Concern (CPC) watch list, claiming it followed Nigeria’s rejection of a “strange proposal” from the US.

• US Designation:
  • On Friday, Trump designated Nigeria as a CPC, citing alleged persecution of Christians.
  • This was based on claims that over 30 Christians are killed daily by Islamic extremists—claims the Nigerian presidency has debunked, asserting the security crisis is not religiously motivated.
• Akindele’s Reaction:
  • Posted on X (formerly Twitter), arguing the move was retaliation for Nigeria’s refusal to accept illegal immigrants from the US.
  • Also cited Nigeria’s pursuit of economic independence with global organizations as a factor.
  • Emphasized Nigeria’s multicultural and multireligious identity, highlighting that the President is Muslim while the First Lady is a Pastor.
  • Called Trump’s action unwarranted, framing Nigeria as a sovereign nation that should not be “messed with.”