Activist and political commentator, Mahdi Shehu, has cautioned that both Christians and Muslims in Nigeria would be the ultimate casualties if the United States decides to intervene militarily in the country.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Shehu argued that America’s supposed concern about religious persecution in Nigeria is merely a smokescreen to advance its strategic and economic interests.
He claimed that Washington’s growing interest in Nigeria stems from fears over China’s influence in Africa and the desire to secure control over Nigeria’s rare earth minerals.
“America’s fear of China and separate commercial considerations, including rare earth minerals, are the primary reasons for wanting to attack Nigeria. Protection of Christians from ‘persecution’ may be the second reason, which serves as a cover,” Shehu wrote.
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Drawing parallels with U.S. interventions in the Middle East and Asia, Shehu warned that any invasion would likely destabilize Nigeria further, leaving ordinary citizens—regardless of faith—as victims.
“Like in Afghanistan, after invading Nigeria, they will enter into lucrative mining site protection contracts with the same bandits, vandals, kidnappers, militias, and even arsonists,” he added.
Shehu’s comments come amid rising tensions following recent statements from U.S. officials suggesting possible action in response to alleged religious persecution in Nigeria.