Table of Contents
- Rejection of Designation
- Dangerous Foreign Propaganda
- No Evidence of Persecution
- Renewed Push for Labeling
- Call to Action
- Conclusion
- FAQ
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has firmly opposed the classification of Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" by former United States President Donald Trump.
The council characterized the assertion of "Christian genocide" in Nigeria as a harmful foreign propaganda intended to destabilize the nation.
During a statement in Abuja on Sunday, the National Secretary of the Council, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, asserted that the genocide narrative being circulated by the US government and far-right lobbyists is inaccurate, politically driven, and seeks to incite religious division in Africa's most populous country.
He stated that there is no evidence to support claims that Muslims in Nigeria are persecuting Christians. The Muslim Ummah clarified that the insecurity affecting the nation stems from terrorism, criminal activity, poverty, and the repercussions of climate change, which have led to community displacement and violent resource conflicts.
"There is no Christian genocide in Nigeria. Both Muslims and Christians fall victim to terrorists and criminal gangs," Oloyede emphasized. "These assailants do not represent Islam. They harm Muslims, destroy mosques, and target all individuals."
He referenced independent investigations, including findings from Amnesty International and global conflict monitors, which concluded that the violence in Nigeria does not fulfill the legal criteria for genocide under international law.
Oloyede also claimed that the renewed effort to classify Nigeria as a religious-persecution zone intensified after Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to a two-state solution in Palestine at the United Nations. He alleged that pro-Israeli and far-right groups are propagating this narrative to distract from the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
"The agenda is distraction and destabilization. The quickest way to fracture Nigeria is to exacerbate religious tensions," he cautioned.
The Islamic Council urged Nigerians, both Christians and Muslims, to reject foreign interference and resist efforts to transform genuine security issues into sectarian conflicts.
Oloyede called on the US to retract its statement and instead assist Nigeria with intelligence and logistical support to combat terrorism.
"We will not permit foreign interests to divide Nigeria. We advocate for unity, peace, and justice," he concluded.
The Council also called upon the Nigerian government to enhance security, expose the sponsors of banditry, and protect all citizens, irrespective of their faith.
It is worth noting that President Trump made his comments following his earlier designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern.
However, the Nigerian government has consistently rejected Trump's claims and has urged the US and others to support peace in the country.
FAQ
What is the NSCIA's position on the US designation of Nigeria?
The NSCIA rejects the designation of Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" and describes the claims of "Christian genocide" as harmful propaganda aimed at destabilizing the country.
What does the NSCIA say about religious persecution in Nigeria?
The NSCIA asserts that there is no evidence of Muslims persecuting Christians in Nigeria and emphasizes that both groups are victims of terrorism and criminal activities.
What does the NSCIA recommend to the US government?
The NSCIA urges the US to withdraw its statement regarding Nigeria and to provide support through intelligence and logistical aid to combat terrorism in the country.
