Nigerian Stories, a prominent media outlet, has sparked intense conversation after announcing via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle that Nigerians in diaspora have strongly criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial move to terminate birthright citizenship in the United States.
The proposal, which seeks to cancel citizenship by birth—a right guaranteed under the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution—has drawn sharp rebukes globally, including from Nigerians abroad. They argue that such a drastic change cannot be achieved through an executive order, as it directly contradicts the U.S. Constitution’s explicit provisions.
Reacting to the development, diaspora Nigerians expressed profound disappointment, labeling Trump’s attempt as both legally flawed and morally questionable. “An executive order is far from sufficient to amend or override the Constitution,” said one Nigerian-American activist, adding that such a move, if left unchecked, could undermine the very principles of democracy and equal rights.
Legal experts and constitutional scholars have echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the 14th Amendment—ratified in 1868—was specifically designed to protect the rights of individuals born on American soil, regardless of their parents’ nationality. “The Constitution is not a document that can be casually amended by executive fiat,” stated a Nigerian-born constitutional lawyer based in Washington, D.C.
The uproar among Nigerians abroad highlights the broader implications of Trump’s proposed action, particularly for immigrant communities. For many Nigerians, the U.S. has served as a beacon of opportunity and fairness, with birthright citizenship playing a pivotal role in the integration and success of immigrant families.
“This proposal is not just an attack on constitutional integrity but also a direct affront to immigrant contributions to America’s greatness,” noted a Nigerian professor of political science in New York. The professor further warned that adopting such policies could fuel xenophobia and disrupt the social fabric of a nation built on diversity.
While Trump’s rhetoric has long targeted immigration policies, Nigerians in diaspora are urging U.S. lawmakers to prioritize adherence to constitutional principles over populist pressures. They are also calling on immigrant communities worldwide to unite against any attempts to erode hard-won rights.
As the debate intensifies, it remains to be seen how U.S. political and judicial systems will respond to this contentious proposal. For Nigerians abroad and millions of other immigrants, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will America uphold the values enshrined in its Constitution, or will it bend to executive overreach? Only time will tell.
PIONEER NEWS 