Tinubu Rejects Claims of Christian Genocide, Says Nigeria’s Crisis Is Criminal, Not Religious
President Bola Tinubu has once again dismissed claims that Nigeria is experiencing a Christian genocide, insisting that the country’s security challenges are driven by criminality, extremism, and long-standing socio-economic problems, not religious persecution.
The President made this known in Abuja while declaring open the 8th Biennial Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Nasrul Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT). Tinubu was represented at the event by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi.
According to him, both Christians and Muslims have been victims of violence in Nigeria, stressing that terrorism in the country is rooted in crime and extremist ideology rather than religion.
His remarks follow recent comments by former US President Donald Trump, who alleged that Christians were being deliberately targeted in Nigeria and described the country as a “Country of Particular Concern.” The comments sparked international debate and prompted the Nigerian government to send a delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to engage US lawmakers.
Tinubu described such allegations as false and dangerous, warning that they could inflame tensions and threaten national unity.
“There is no Christian genocide in Nigeria, and there is no Muslim genocide,” he said, adding that Nigeria does not tolerate persecution of any religious group.
The President assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to protecting lives, promoting religious freedom, and strengthening national unity. He urged citizens to reject divisive narratives, whether coming from within or outside the country.
Tinubu also highlighted Nigeria’s diversity as a source of strength and praised NASFAT for promoting moderation, tolerance and peaceful coexistence, noting that such values are essential for resolving conflict and building unity.
At the conference, keynote speaker Dr Nurudeen Lemu encouraged Muslims to remain steadfast in faith and hopeful despite the nation’s challenges.
