
On October 24, 2025, social media commentator Ben B@dejo issued a stark warning against the potential for "Islamic extremism" to impact New York, drawing parallels to situations in Europe and Nigeria. In a tweet, B@dejo declared, > "New York can't become Europe, folks. I don't know what's wrong with people. You see what's playing out in other countries because of Islamic extremism. Not Muslims, let's not mix this up, but Islamic extremists that are burning churches in Nigeria, that are destroying communities in Germany, that have taken over logical thinking. That's why I'm here today to endorse Andrew Cuomo, to be part of this fight." This endorsement positions former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo as a key figure in combating such perceived threats.
The concerns raised by B@dejo regarding Nigeria reflect ongoing challenges. Reports from organizations like Open Doors indicate that 82% of Christians killed for faith-related reasons globally in 2023 occurred in Nigeria, with groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militants responsible for widespread violence, including church burnings and mass killings. Attacks in Plateau State around Christmas 2023, for instance, resulted in numerous deaths and destroyed religious sites, highlighting the severe impact on communities.
In Germany, Islamist extremism remains a persistent concern for authorities. The country experienced deadly Islamist attacks in Mannheim and Solingen in 2024, with the Islamic State identified as a significant ideological inspiration. German police have also disrupted several planned terrorist attacks, particularly targeting Jewish institutions, following heightened global tensions in late 2023. A 2024 study further noted the societal impact, where ordinary Muslims often face stigmatization due to associations with Islamist terrorism in public discourse.
Andrew Cuomo, who resigned as New York Governor in August 2021 amidst sexual harassment allegations and scrutiny over nursing home deaths, has been actively pursuing a political comeback. By March 2025, he had formally announced a bid for Mayor of New York City, positioning himself as a moderate and competent leader capable of addressing urban challenges. B@dejo's endorsement links Cuomo's mayoral campaign directly to a broader "fight" against global extremist ideologies, framing his leadership as essential for New York's security.