TINUBU DENIES GENOCIDE CLAIMS, ATTRIBUTES VIOLENCE TO TERRORISM AND CRIMINALITY
GREATRIBUNETVNEWS–President Bola Tinubu has firmly rejected allegations of Christian or Muslim genocide in Nigeria, stating that the country’s security challenges stem from terrorism, criminality, and extremism rather than religious persecution.
KEY STATEMENTS:
– No Genocide : “As President, I reiterate with all sense of responsibility that there is no Christian genocide in Nigeria, and there is no Muslim genocide in Nigeria”
– Cause of Violence : “What we have is terrorism driven by criminality and extremism—challenges we are working tirelessly to overcome”
– Religious Coexistence : “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”
– Response to Allegations : “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”
– Diversity as Strength : “Our strength has always been in our diversity, our ability to live together, worship differently, and still see one another as brothers, sisters, and compatriots”
CONTEXT:
– Tinubu made these remarks at the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society’s (NASFAT) 8th Biennial Conference in Abuja on December 12, 2025
– Response to US President Donald Trump’s declaration of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged Christian genocide claims
– Tinubu emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to national unity, religious freedom, and security for all Nigerians
“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, extremism, challenges we are working tirelessly to overcome,” he said.
Tinubu said the Nigerian government would continue to promote firm 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 neither allow internal nor external forces to sow discord or feed dangerous stereotypes about our beloved nation,” he said.
According to the President, Nigeria’s strength has always been in its diversity, our ability to live together, worship differently, and still see one another as brothers, sisters, and compatriots.
He said that it was comforting to note that faith-based organisations such as NASFAT play an invaluable role in this regard.
“Your teaching on moderation, tolerance, and service to humanity provides 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,” he said.
He said the Federal Government remained firmly committed to building an inclusive, prosperous, and secure Nigeria.
“We are undertaking bold reforms to stabilise the economy, restore confidence, attract investments, and create opportunities for all Nigerians.
“While these reforms are necessary for long-term prosperity, I understand the inevitable temporary difficulties many citizens are experiencing.
“Let me assure you that we are working tirelessly to alleviate these pressures, expand social support, accelerate the benefits of the reforms, and above all,
“We will also reinvigorate our security architecture to protect all Nigerians, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or geography.
“However, the government can not build resilience alone. As we reform our economy and tackle insecurity, we rely on institutions like NASFAT to reinforce the moral and spiritual fabric of our society.”
The President said that good governance must work hand-in-hand with strong values, adding that development must be accompanied by discipline, passion and integrity.
According to him, faith must inspire action.
“We need your continued partnership in promoting peace, reducing tension, countering misinformation, and nurturing the values of unity and patriotism,” he said.
Speaking on the theme of the conference, keynote speaker, Dr Nurudeen Lemu, said no matter the problem the country was facing, Muslim faithful should hold the rope of Almighty Allah and have hope in Him.
Lemu urged Nigerians to be optimistic to build and not to destroy Nigeria, calling for Nigerian’s patience and endurance in order to transform the country.
The cleric also called for synergy between faith-based organisations in order to enhance the socio-economic development and good governance.
Also speaking, Prof. Ishiaq Oloyede, Secretary General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, described NASFAT as one of the five-star Islamic organisations.
“We believe five-star will not be enough, because people are now talking of seven-star, and I believe NASFAT will be there.”
He prayed that Almighty Allah would continue to strengthen the society.
According to him, the world is changing, and our understanding of Islam must also change with time.
“The application of Islam in the public space must also change. For those who are thinking very well, they will know that Islam is not in a good way,” he said.
SOURCE ==NAN==EXCEPT THE HEADLINE AND INTRO PLUS A FEW PARAGRAPHS
About the Author
