Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka has condemned US President Donald Trump for threatening military intervention in Nigeria.

Speaking on Friday in Makurdi after meeting with Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, Soyinka described Trump’s comments as reflective of a rigid mindset that overlooks the country’s complex security challenges.

“You don’t just open your mouth and say, ‘I’m coming to help you whether you like it or not,’” Soyinka said. “With poor, almost non-existent analysis, you say you are coming with ‘guns blazing.’ At least respect those working to find solutions to this unacceptable situation.”

The 90-year-old literary icon emphasized that governments have a duty to protect their citizens and that victims deserve respect.

The criticism follows Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” on October 31, citing alleged killings of Christians. He subsequently warned that he had asked the US Defence Department to prepare for potential military action if the Nigerian government “continues to allow the killing of Christians.”