A recent investigation by The New York Times suggests that the United States may have partially relied on information from Emeka Umeagbalasi, a screwdriver trader from Onitsha, Anambra State, before carrying out airstrikes in Nigeria.
Umeagbalasi, founder of the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety), has reportedly been cited by US Republican lawmakers in support of claims that Christians are being systematically targeted and killed across Nigeria.
On December 26, the US launched airstrikes against ISIS terrorists in northwestern Sokoto State, an operation it said was conducted at the request of Nigerian authorities.
Described by The New York Times as “an unlikely source,” Umeagbalasi’s reports were referenced by lawmakers Riley Moore, Ted Cruz, and New Jersey Congressman Chris Smith. Sources indicate that former US President Donald Trump asked these lawmakers to investigate allegations of a so-called “Christian genocide” in Nigeria, with Umeagbalasi’s work forming part of the evidence cited.
The report notes that Umeagbalasi often assumes victims are Christians if attacks occur in predominantly Christian areas, raising questions about the reliability of his claims.
Nevertheless, experts point out that the US is unlikely to have relied solely on Umeagbalasi, given its vast intelligence and surveillance capabilities worldwide.
The Nigerian government later confirmed the airstrikes, which were conducted in collaboration with American forces, following Trump’s announcement of the operation a day after Christmas.
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