United States Congressman Riley Moore has faulted China’s recent warning to Washington over a proposed U.S. military intervention in Nigeria, describing Beijing’s position as hypocritical and unacceptable.
In a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday, Moore expressed full support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s stance on defending Christians allegedly facing persecution in Nigeria.
According to the lawmaker, the United States bears a moral obligation to protect religious freedom and those who suffer for their faith.
“President Trump is absolutely right to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ who are suffering horrific persecution, and even martyrdom, for their faith in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,” Moore wrote.
He also condemned China’s human rights record, accusing the Asian superpower of lacking the moral authority to caution the United States.
“China will not dictate our foreign policy to us. We will not be lectured by a Communist regime that arrests Christian pastors and detains ethnic minorities in concentration camps,” Moore added.
Moore’s comments came after China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned Washington against “interference” in Nigeria’s internal security matters.
Speaking at a press briefing in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reaffirmed China’s support for the Nigerian government, describing the country as a “comprehensive strategic partner.”
“China firmly supports Nigeria in pursuing a development path suited to its national realities. We oppose any interference in other countries’ internal affairs under the guise of religion or human rights,” Ning said.
Beijing’s warning followed Trump’s declaration that the U.S. might take direct action to protect Christian communities allegedly targeted in parts of Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Federal Government has cautioned the U.S. to respect its sovereignty and refrain from any unilateral military intervention.
The diplomatic exchanges highlight growing international tensions surrounding claims of religious persecution in Nigeria, as Western powers and global actors continue to express divided views on how to address the situation.
