President Donald Trump has publicly warned that the U.S. “could” send troops or launch airstrikes in Nigeria to stop what he described as the “mass slaughter” of Christians.

This rhetoric is reckless and dangerous.

While violent extremist groups like Boko Haram continue to commit atrocities in parts of Nigeria—and all efforts must be made to protect civilians—unilateral U.S. military intervention risks escalating the conflict, destabilizing the region, and further endangering both Christian and Muslim communities.

Nigeria’s government has responded by saying it is open to assistance, but only with respect for its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Nigerian officials also firmly rejected claims that the country is “religiously intolerant,” noting that both Christians and Muslims have suffered in the ongoing insurgency.

U.S. military threats will not solve this crisis—they will make it worse.

We call on President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and U.S. policymakers to:

• Immediately rule out the use of U.S. military force in Nigeria
  Invest in diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and interfaith peacebuilding efforts
• Support African-led regional solutions and partnerships that respect Nigerian sovereignty
• Stop using religious violence as political leverage—and start advancing policies that save lives.

Violence against any community must be condemned. But military escalation is not the answer.

Sign this petition to demand peaceful, cooperative solutions—without airstrikes, without troops, and without more loss of life.

Pic: Reuters