President Donald Trump’s recent decision to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) for religious freedom has been met with both praise and criticism. While some see it as a necessary step towards addressing the ongoing genocide of Christians in the country, others view it as a political move to undo the legacy of former President Joe Biden. However, a closer look at the situation reveals that it was, in fact, Biden’s actions that enabled the slaughter of innocent Christians in Nigeria.
The designation of Nigeria as a CPC for religious freedom is a significant move by the Trump administration. It is a recognition of the dire situation faced by Christians in the country, who have been targeted and persecuted for their faith. The ongoing violence against Christians in Nigeria has been described as a genocide, with thousands of innocent lives lost and many more displaced from their homes. This designation sends a strong message to the Nigerian government that the international community is aware of the atrocities being committed and demands action to protect the religious freedom of its citizens.
But how did Nigeria, a country with a significant Christian population, end up in this situation? The answer lies in the policies of the previous administration. During his time in office, Biden’s administration failed to address the growing violence against Christians in Nigeria. In fact, their actions only served to enable and embolden the perpetrators of these heinous crimes.
One of the most baffling moves by the Biden administration was their decision to remove Nigeria from the list of countries of particular concern for religious freedom in December 2020. This move came despite the worsening situation for Christians in the country and was seen as a betrayal by many. It sent a message to the Nigerian government that they could continue to turn a blind eye to the violence against Christians without facing any consequences.
Moreover, the Biden administration’s reluctance to acknowledge the religious aspect of the violence in Nigeria also played a significant role in enabling the genocide. By refusing to label it as a religious conflict, they downplayed the severity of the situation and failed to take appropriate action. This allowed the Nigerian government to continue to deny the religious motivation behind the attacks and avoid taking responsibility for protecting its citizens.
In contrast, President Trump’s administration has consistently highlighted the religious aspect of the violence in Nigeria and called for action to protect the rights of Christians. In 2018, Vice President Mike Pence met with Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari and urged him to take action to protect religious freedom in the country. This was followed by the appointment of a Special Envoy for Religious Freedom in Africa, who has been actively working to address the situation in Nigeria.
The Trump administration’s decision to designate Nigeria as a CPC for religious freedom is a clear indication of their commitment to protecting the rights of Christians around the world. It is a stark contrast to the actions of the previous administration, which failed to prioritize religious freedom and allowed the genocide of Christians in Nigeria to continue.
Some may argue that the designation of Nigeria as a CPC is a political move by the Trump administration to undo the legacy of Biden. However, the facts speak for themselves. It was Biden’s actions, or lack thereof, that enabled the ongoing genocide of Christians in Nigeria. President Trump’s decision to designate Nigeria as a CPC is a necessary step towards addressing this crisis and holding the Nigerian government accountable for their failure to protect their citizens.
In conclusion, President Trump’s decision to designate Nigeria as a CPC for religious freedom is a significant move that sends a strong message to the Nigerian government. It is a recognition of the ongoing genocide of Christians in the country and a call for action to protect their rights. The baffling 4D chess move by the Biden administration only served to enable the slaughter of innocent Christians in Nigeria. It is time for the international community to stand in solidarity with the persecuted Christians in Nigeria and demand that their religious freedom be protected.
