‘Stop the Killings or Nigeria Could Breakup’ – Former US Envoy Warns Tinubu
A former United States diplomat has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, warning that the country could face a violent breakup if urgent steps are not taken.
The warning was directed at President Bola Tinubu, as killings continue in different parts of the country.
Sam Brownback, a former U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, gave the warning in a speech captured in a viral video.
He said the situation has reached a critical stage and may spiral out of control if not addressed immediately.
Brownback described Nigeria as a dangerous place for Christians, noting that the scale of violence has become alarming. He said the trend, if allowed to continue, could threaten the unity of the country.
“Breaking point, stop the killings now or face a split of the country,” Brownback said.
He stressed that the situation is no longer sustainable and may lead to serious consequences. According to him, the country is gradually moving towards a point where unity may no longer hold.
“That’s not going to be able to sustain itself and continue without leading to a violent split up of the country. And I say those words cautiously, and I don’t like saying those words, but I believe it to be the truth,” he added.
The former envoy warned that failure by the Nigerian government to act decisively could worsen the crisis. He said both Christians and moderate Muslims are already being affected by the violence.
“If the Nigerian government now does not get on top of this situation of what’s taking place in Nigeria, and has been now for a number of years, if they don’t get on top of it and start protecting their people, particularly the Christian community and the moderate Muslim communities that are being attacked, if they don’t stop this, this is going to lead to broader bloodshed throughout Nigeria and probably a splitting up of the country. And it’s that dramatic,” he said.
His comments come at a time when insecurity remains a major concern across Nigeria. Several regions continue to record attacks by bandits, insurgents, and other armed groups. Kidnappings, communal clashes, and targeted killings have also increased pressure on security agencies.
The Federal Government has repeatedly assured Nigerians that efforts are ongoing to tackle insecurity. Security operations have been intensified in some affected areas, while authorities continue to call for calm.
However, concerns remain among citizens and international observers over the pace of response and the scale of the crisis.
