The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has reacted angrily to reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to launch military action in Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.
Trump had recently designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” and reportedly directed the U.S. Department of Defense to prepare for possible intervention.
Counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama disclosed in a post on his X handle that ISWAP issued a propaganda statement through its usual communication channels in response to Trump’s remarks.
In the message, the extremist group described Trump as a “reckless American tyrant” allegedly influenced by “evangelical Christian and Jewish advisers.” Makama explained that ISWAP accused the former U.S. leader of trying to present America as the “global defender of Christians,” a stance the group said reflected renewed hostility toward Western nations.
The group also issued internal security directives to its members, warning them against the use of smartphones, attending public gatherings, or engaging in unnecessary movements to avoid surveillance.
ISWAP further called on Muslims across West Africa to unite in the face of what it called “Western aggression,” accusing the United States and its allies of committing “crimes against African Muslims.”
The statement marks yet another attempt by ISWAP to rally support through anti-Western rhetoric amid growing international attention on terrorism and religious freedom in Nigeria.
