Table of Contents

  1. Claims of Genocide
  2. Peaceful Coexistence
  3. Mixed-Faith Families
  4. Insecurity Issues
  5. Political Expectations

Elder statesman Alhaji Tanko Yakasai has stated that the allegations of a “genocide” targeting Nigerian Christians are unfounded.
He emphasized that Christians and Muslims have coexisted harmoniously for many generations.

The centenarian accused certain foreign media outlets of “inflaming religious tensions” and criticized former United States President Donald Trump for implying that Christians were under threat.

He mentioned that a small number of Nigerians with connections to the U.S. provided Trump with misleading information.

According to Yakasai, “I do not agree that there is a Christian genocide. Some Christians close to the United States exploited their relationship with Donald Trump.”

He pointed out that both faiths have historically lived together peacefully: “Christians and Muslims have always coexisted; we are like brothers and sisters.”

He further noted that mixed-faith families have existed in the Middle Belt long before colonialism began.

“In every household, we see Christians and Muslims living together in harmony,” he remarked.

Yakasai also referred to Trump as “an opportunist,” claiming that the President was misled by individuals “seeking relevance.”

Regarding insecurity, he acknowledged that while it is a nationwide issue, it is particularly severe in the North.

He advocated for the establishment of zonal police commands to enhance security responses but opposed the idea of state police, arguing that they could be easily manipulated.

His statement was: “There was a proposal at one time for the establishment of zonal police… the current number of police personnel is insufficient to cover the entire country.”

He added, “State police are vulnerable to manipulation by individuals and political interests.”

On political matters, Yakasai expressed his belief that President Bola Tinubu will run for re-election in 2027 and has a strong chance of winning.

“President Tinubu is likely to seek a second term and has a good chance of success because he possesses the resources to support his ambitions,” he stated.

He acknowledged that every nation faces its own challenges and that no single group can be held accountable.

“Every country has its issues… wherever there are people, there will be problems,” he concluded.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Alhaji Tanko Yakasai say about claims of genocide against Christians?

He stated that the claims are unfounded and emphasized the peaceful coexistence of Christians and Muslims in Nigeria.

How does Yakasai view the relationship between Christians and Muslims?

He believes that Christians and Muslims have lived together harmoniously for generations and are like brothers and sisters.

What is Yakasai's opinion on the security situation in Nigeria?

He acknowledges that insecurity is a nationwide problem but is particularly severe in the North, advocating for zonal police commands.

What are Yakasai's political expectations regarding President Bola Tinubu?

He expects President Tinubu to run for a second term in 2027 and believes he has a strong chance of winning due to his resources.