International Political Rhetoric and Domestic Conflict Narratives: A Qualitative Analysis of Trump’s ‘Christian Genocide’ Speech and Nigerian Media Responses
Keywords:
Christian Genocide; Media Framing; Conflict; Political Rhetoric; NigeriaAbstract
Religious violence in Nigeria attracts significant international attention, particularly when external actors frame domestic conflicts in moralized or geopolitical terms. Donald Trump’s 2025 declaration of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria intensified global scrutiny and reshaped discourse surrounding local insecurity. Although prior studies examine religion, political rhetoric, and media framing in Nigeria, none have analysed these perspectives through integrated lenses of securitization, globalization, and postcolonial contestation. This study addresses this gap by critically assessing how Nigerian newspapers framed Trump’s claims, examining how international media interpreted, reproduced, or contested these assertions, and analysing competing narratives around violence, identity, and religion. An explorative qualitative design was employed, drawing on peer-reviewed journal articles, scholarly books, and reputable reports, analysed thematically. Securitization theory guided the analysis, illuminating how external rhetoric constructs perceived threats. Key findings reveal that Trump’s speech elevated localized violence into a global moral crisis, while Nigerian media actively negotiated, resisted, or reframed these narratives in line with domestic political, social, and religious contexts. The study recommends evidence-based, context-sensitive reporting and improved international engagement strategies. Consequently, this study contributes to conflict studies, international relations, media studies, African studies, and contemporary historical studies. Policy implications include strengthening media regulation, promoting conflict-sensitive journalism, and developing strategies to manage the influence of external political rhetoric. Future research should explore how digital media and transnational networks shape the circulation and impact of international political narratives on African conflict discourses.
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