In reaction to Chief Femi Fani-Kayode’s recent article titled “A WARNING TO SENATOR TED CRUZ AND HIS CABAL OF YANKEE CRUSADERS,” it has become necessary to present a clear and thoughtful rejoinder on behalf of millions of Nigerian Christians whose voices are finally being heard through credible international allies and advocates, including Senator Ted Cruz and other global Christian leaders.
The former Minister’s piece, though passionate and articulate, regrettably undermines the genuine concerns of the international Christian community over the persistent persecution, killings, and marginalization of Christians in Nigeria. It is unbecoming, unfair, and uncharitable to dismiss the heartfelt interventions of respected figures like Senator Ted Cruz, who has courageously spoken against the genocide and religious injustices taking place in Nigeria.
Let it be stated emphatically that Nigerian Christians do not need to be “rescued” from their international friends. We need their voices to amplify ours. For too long, our cries have been met with silence within our own borders. When our brothers and sisters abroad speak up for us, it is not interference; it is solidarity. It is a moral duty anchored in truth and faith.
Chief Fani-Kayode’s article paints a false narrative, one that pits Nigerian sovereignty against Christian compassion. However, advocacy for justice and human rights is not an attack on national sovereignty; it is an act of divine conscience. Even the Scriptures admonish us in Proverbs 31:8–9:
“Open your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.”
If Senator Ted Cruz and others have chosen to heed that biblical command on behalf of persecuted Christians in Nigeria, they deserve appreciation, not condemnation.
As a former presidential candidate and servant of God, I, Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, urge Chief Fani-Kayode and all patriotic Nigerians to channel their passion into promoting unity and truth. Instead of insulting international voices of conscience, let us work together to end the evil of religious intolerance, violence, and systemic oppression within our land.
We cannot continue to deny or downplay the horrors that many Christian communities face daily, the massacres in Southern Kaduna, Plateau, Benue, Taraba, and other parts of the North. The world must not turn a blind eye, and neither should we silence those who speak out.
Let this be a message to all who value truth and justice: Nigeria’s Christian community will continue to stand with and appreciate all international allies who advocate for peace, justice, and freedom of religion.
Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities and powers that seek to silence the truth. We, therefore, reject every attempt to insult or intimidate those who amplify our cry for help.
Shalom!
SIGNED:
Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies
Department of English and Communication Arts
Ignatius Ajuru University of Education
Port Harcourt
Rivers State
Nigeria
