The Federal Government has dismissed claims of religious genocide in Nigeria, describing them as “false, baseless, despicable, and divisive.”
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said portraying Nigeria’s security challenges as a targeted campaign against a single religious group is a gross misrepresentation of reality.
In a statement on Sunday, Idris, said, “the federal government strongly condemns and categorically refutes recent allegations by certain international platforms and online influencers suggesting that terrorists operating in Nigeria are engaged in a systematic genocide against Christians.
“Such claims are false, baseless, despicable, and divisive.
“Portraying Nigeria’s security challenges as a targeted campaign against a single religious group is a gross misrepresentation of reality.
”While Nigeria, like many countries, has faced security challenges, including acts of terrorism perpetrated by criminals, couching the situation as a deliberate, systematic attack on Christians is inaccurate and harmful.
“It oversimplifies a complex, multifaceted security environment and plays into the hands of terrorists and criminals who seek to divide Nigerians along religious or ethnic lines.”
Idris emphasised that terrorists target all who reject their ideology, regardless of faith, and that both Muslims and Christians have suffered at their hands.
He highlighted the military’s progress in operations against terror groups, including the capture of Ansaru leaders and over 700 convictions against Boko Haram suspects.
The minister noted that Nigeria has made significant strides in prosecuting Boko Haram suspects, with over 700 convictions secured.
He also highlighted the country’s interfaith efforts, including the awarding of the Commonwealth Peace Prize to two Nigerian religious leaders.
Idris urged international observers to avoid sensational narratives and support Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.
He emphasised the need for responsible reporting and respect for facts, rather than perpetuating divisive rhetoric.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to fighting terrorism and all forms of criminality, while promoting national unity and inclusivity.
Idris pointed out that the current heads of the armed forces and police are Christians, underscoring the inclusivity of Nigeria’s national leadership.
