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A former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Babachir Lawal, stated that American Christians have a legitimate right to defend Nigerian Christians if they believe those individuals are facing persecution.
In an interview on Channels Television, which was monitored by DAILY POST on Monday, Lawal contended that such intervention is consistent with Biblical principles of Christian solidarity and should not be criticized.
He was responding to allegations from the United States government regarding attacks on Christians in Nigeria, as well as US President Donald Trump’s warning of potential military action.
According to him, the Nigerian government must take responsibility for ensuring the safety and welfare of its citizens, emphasizing that a failure to fulfill this duty could lead affected groups to seek assistance from other sources.
“The government should provide assurance that they can deliver the peace and prosperity we desire. If they are unable to do that, they cannot blame any segment of society that chooses to seek help from elsewhere,” he remarked.
Lawal highlighted that defending fellow believers is grounded in Christian teachings, asserting that the principle of “Christian brotherhood” obliges believers to protect one another, irrespective of nationality or ethnicity.
“In the Bible, we are taught to be our brothers’ keepers. If American Christians choose to assist Nigerian Christians in distress, that aligns with Biblical teachings. They are entitled to do so if Christians feel they are unable to defend themselves,” he added.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do American Christians have the right to intervene in Nigeria?
Yes, according to Babachir Lawal, American Christians have a legitimate right to defend Nigerian Christians if they believe they are facing persecution, as it aligns with Biblical principles of solidarity.
What is the role of the Nigerian government regarding citizen safety?
The Nigerian government is responsible for ensuring the safety and welfare of its citizens. If they fail to do so, they may leave affected groups to seek help from other sources.
