Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Statement from Archbishop Orkwar
- Description of Ongoing Killings
- Government's Role and Responsibility
- Response to Terrorism
- International Intervention
- Call to Action for Leaders
The General Overseer of All Nations Evangelism Ministry (ANEM) and President of the Christian Association of Clergies in Nigeria (CAC-Nig), Archbishop Yiman Orkwar, stated that only those who sponsor or support terrorism should be concerned about the warning from the President of the United States, Donald Trump, regarding intervention against genocide in Nigeria.
He shared this insight during a conversation with journalists in Makurdi, following recent attacks by armed herdsmen.
Archbishop Orkwar remarked, “If you are not a terrorist or a supporter of terrorism, what is there to fear?”
“Trump did not indicate he plans to overthrow Tinubu’s administration. He mentioned he would target terrorists. If our leaders are unable to protect us, they should collaborate with him to eliminate these threats.”
The cleric characterized the ongoing violence as “genocide,” referencing the mass burials occurring in Benue and Plateau States.
“Christians are facing persecution in Nigeria — that is the reality. They are murdering men, women, and children, seizing land, and destroying farms. What else could be defined as genocide?” he questioned.
Orkwar criticized previous administrations for their lack of political will to confront these aggressors, emphasizing that the situation worsened under the last government and continues under President Tinubu.
“Tinubu began with the intention to take action, but now he appears preoccupied with the 2027 elections.”
“If he cannot halt the violence, he should collaborate with Trump. These terrorists are outsiders, and those who facilitated their entry are still at large,” he asserted.
He also called on the Federal Government to classify armed herdsmen as terrorists, arguing that this designation would enable security forces to respond more effectively.
“You do not negotiate with terrorists. Engaging with them only allows them to use your resources to acquire more weapons,” he cautioned.
He dismissed concerns that U.S. involvement might undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty, asserting that international intervention is justified when genocide occurs.
“Genocide transcends national boundaries; it is a global issue. If the U.S. is willing to assist in stopping it, we should view that as a chance, not a threat,” he stated.
Orkwar urged Nigerian leaders to take decisive action:
“Our leaders must cease playing politics with the lives of the people. Every Nigerian life is valuable. If Trump is willing to help eliminate terrorism, the government should be cooperative.
“We cannot continue in this manner — lives are lost daily, and our nation has become one of the most sorrowful places on earth.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Archbishop Yiman Orkwar say about Trump’s warning?
He stated that only sponsors and supporters of terrorism should fear Trump's warning and emphasized that Trump is targeting terrorists, not the Nigerian government.
How does Orkwar describe the killings in Nigeria?
He described the ongoing killings as genocide, highlighting the persecution of Christians and the violent takeover of land.
What is Orkwar's stance on government action against terrorism?
He criticized past governments for lacking the will to confront the killers and urged the current government to collaborate with Trump and classify armed herdsmen as terrorists.
