By Abu Afnan
The recent decision by the *United States to designate Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” (CPC)* has sent shockwaves through the political and religious landscape. On the surface, this designation is framed as a response to alleged violations of religious freedom. But behind the headlines lies a much deeper, and more dangerous implication for our already struggling nation.
This label means Nigeria is now under watch for possible *sanctions and political restrictions*, measures that could severely affect our economy. Let’s be realistic: the Nigerian people, ordinary citizens, Muslims, Christians, and others alike, will bear the brunt of any sanction. We are already battling inflation, unemployment, and an unstable currency. The last thing we need is another external blow in the name of “human rights advocacy.”
While the *Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)* may celebrate this announcement as a diplomatic victory, many Nigerians view it with caution. History has shown that such foreign interventions are rarely driven by compassion or genuine concern for the oppressed. The U.S. and its Western allies often act to *protect strategic interests*, political influence, resource control, and economic dominance, *not to uplift suffering nations.*
And as for CAN, one can only hope that their celebration is not tied to *hidden promises of financial aid, foreign privileges, or political favor* from their Western partners. If the aim is truly to defend the faithful, then let the same energy be directed toward *ending killings across all divides*, whether in Plateau, Zamfara, Benue, or Borno, because terror in Nigeria has never asked for anyone’s religion before striking.
It is a painful reality that while innocent Nigerians bleed, some benefit politically or financially from the nation’s crisis. The tragedy of our time is that religion has become a tool in the hands of power seekers, both at home and abroad. This pattern isn’t new; we’ve seen it before in Africa and beyond.
Let’s not forget history. The same Western powers that brought Christianity to our shores under the banner of civilization and faith were the ones who *enslaved, colonized, and exploited* us. Today, the same method continues, only now in the language of *“human rights”* and *“freedom advocacy.”*
*I am not against any faith,* nor do I deny the need for justice where genuine persecution exists. But we must be wise. Nigeria must not become another pawn in the global power game. We must not allow our diversity to be weaponized to divide us or drag our nation into chaos like *Sudan*, where foreign influence and internal mistrust tore a proud nation apart.
May Almighty protect our dear nation from every open and hidden plot against it.
May He restore peace, unity, and true justice to our land, and to the entire world.
Abu Afnan
Writer | Political Commentator | Advocate for National Unity
ustazabuafnan@gmail.com