President Bola Tinubu has refuted claims of a Christian genocide in the country once again, insisting that neither Muslims nor Christians are being killed.
The President claimed that contrary to religious persecution, the nation’s insecurity stems from historical, economic, and criminal issues.
He gave a speech on Friday in Abuja during the opening of the 8th Biennial Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society, which had the topic.
“Building Resilience in a Changing World: The Role of Faith and Community.”
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi attended the ceremony on behalf of Tinubu, who stated that Nigeria was fighting terrorism that was motivated by fanaticism and criminality.
US President Donald Trump said a few weeks ago that Christians were being killed in Nigeria and threatened to send US military troops there if the Federal Government did not take action.
Trump claimed that Christians were being persecuted in Nigeria while the Federal Government reportedly turned a blind eye, designating the country as a “Country of Particular Concern.”
The comment caused controversy both in and outside of Nigeria, which prompted the Federal Government to send a delegation led by National Security Advisor Nuhu Ribadu to speak with US lawmakers and provide a clearer perspective of Nigeria’s security issues.
Speaking at the NASFAT program, Tinubu reportedly stated.
“In recent times, the Federal Government and other persons of goodwill have had to address unfounded allegations.”
According to an article published online by Freedom Online. In addition to being untrue, these accusations are damaging and have the potential to stoke emotions and sabotage the harmonious coexistence that our country is still striving for.
“Nigeria’s response was clear, firm and measured. We reaffirmed that our nation does not foster or tolerate policies or actions aimed at persecuting any religious group. Muslims and Christians alike have been victims of terrorism in Nigeria. Muslims and Christians alike stand shoulder to shoulder in condemning violence from any quarter.
“As President, I reiterate with all sense of responsibility and fidelity to the Constitution that there is no Christian genocide in Nigeria, and there is no Muslim genocide in Nigeria. What we have is terrorism driven by criminality and extremism—challenges we are working tirelessly to overcome.”
The President added that the Federal Government would continue to promote national unity, religious freedom and the security of every human life.
“We must, therefore, reject narratives that seek to divide us, whether they come from within or outside our borders. We must not allow internal or external forces to sow discord or promote dangerous stereotypes about our beloved nation,” he added.
Tinubu said Nigeria’s strength has always been in its diversity and the ability of its people to live together while worshipping differently.
He commended NASFAT’s role in promoting unity in the country, saying, “Your teachings on moderation, tolerance and service to humanity provide pathways for resolving conflicts and deepening national unity.
“Let us continue to promote moderation, peaceful coexistence and respect for our diversity. Our differences are a divine design, not a source of conflict.”
Dr. Nurudeen Lemu, the conference’s keynote speaker, encouraged Muslims to hold on to God and remain optimistic, regardless of the challenges facing the country.
