The United States government has threatened to revoke visas of foreign nationals, including Nigerians, who mocked the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a right-wing activist and ally of President Donald Trump.
Kirk was fatally shot on Wednesday while participating in a debate at Utah Valley University. Authorities are yet to apprehend the killer.
Reacting on Wednesday night, President Donald Trump blamed “the radical left” for Kirk’s death.
“The monster who attacked him was attacking our whole country,” the president said.
The 31-year-old author and podcast host played a key role in mobilising conservative youth voters and was instrumental in Trump’s return to the White House.
Kirk, known for his Christian nationalist stance and far-right rhetoric, often courted controversy with provocative remarks about Islam, women, and Black people.
Following his death, social media erupted with ridicule, as both Americans and foreigners — including Nigerians — circulated old clips and quotes as justification for mocking his assassination.
On Thursday, the US government warned it would strip visas from foreigners found “praising, rationalizing, or making light of” Kirk’s death.
Deputy Secretary of State Chris Landau condemned the online reactions, stressing that federal authorities were moving against those engaging in what he called “twisted social media mockery.”
“In light of yesterday’s horrific assassination of a leading political figure, I want to underscore that foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome victors to our country,” Landau posted on X.
“I have been disgusted to see some on social media praising, rationalizing, or making light of the event, and have directed our consular officials to undertake appropriate action. Please feel free to bring such comments by foreigners to my attention so that the @StateDept can protect the American people.”
