A resurfaced video of Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, has sparked controversy and debate across the country.
In the 2023 video, Ribadu is seen emotionally pleading with American officials to help Nigeria end the scourge of Boko Haram, banditry, and kidnapping. He expressed his desire for Nigeria to become a “beautiful country” like the United States, saying, “Let’s stop these terrorists, let’s stop these bandits, let’s stop these extremists — let’s stop them.
The world can do it. Let us be given back our freedom; we want to live like the rest of the world. They have robbed us of our freedom to do basic things.”
However, with recent developments suggesting that the US might intervene in Nigeria to address the security challenges, Ribadu and others have seemingly changed their tune. The US President has threatened to take military action against Nigeria if the government fails to protect its Christian population from extremist violence.
Many Nigerians are now questioning the sincerity of Ribadu’s plea and the government’s intentions. Some believe that the US is only interested in exploiting Nigeria’s natural resources, while others think that the government is not doing enough to address the security challenges.
Reactions from Nigerians
– “He begged for them to come as if he will cry, now he begs for them not to come as if he will cry,” one Nigerian commented on social media.
– “Is Trump the guardian of the Christians on the mother earth?” another asked.
– “We need help from the United States and others to solve the terrorism challenge,” a security source said.
The Way Forward
The situation highlights the complexities of international relations and the challenges of addressing security issues in Nigeria. As the government navigates this delicate situation, it’s essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens.
What do you think about the US intervention in Nigeria? Should the government accept help or handle the security challenges on its own?
Follow-up questions: What are the implications of the US intervention for Nigeria’s sovereignty? How can the government balance its need for help with the desire to maintain control over its security affair
