…Says terrorists target all faiths, not Christians alone
The Federal Government has strongly dismissed allegations by some international platforms and online influencers that terrorists in Nigeria are carrying out a systematic genocide against Christians.
In a statement signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government described such claims as “false, baseless, despicable and divisive,” insisting they misrepresent Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
According to the Minister, portraying acts of terrorism as a deliberate campaign against a single religious group is inaccurate and dangerous.
“The violent activities of terrorist groups are not confined to any particular religious or ethnic community. Muslims, Christians, and even those who do not identify with any religion have suffered at their hands,” Idris said.
He disclosed that between May 2023 and February 2025, security forces neutralised over 13,543 terrorists and criminals and rescued nearly 10,000 hostages in multiple operations across the country. He also cited the capture of top leaders of Ansaru, Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate, as proof of government’s resolve to dismantle terrorist networks.
The Minister emphasised that Nigeria remains a multi-religious country where both Christianity and Islam thrive, noting that the leadership of the Armed Forces and Police are currently headed by Christians. He said this underscores the inclusivity of governance and dismisses any suggestion of religious persecution.
Idris further revealed that over 700 Boko Haram suspects have been convicted across seven batches of prosecutions, with an eighth phase already underway, highlighting government’s ongoing efforts to deliver justice.
“The Nigerian story is not one of genocide or persecution. Rather, it is a story of resilience, diversity, and a globally acknowledged commitment to peaceful coexistence,” Idris affirmed.
He added that Nigeria’s commitment to peacebuilding was globally recognised when the Commonwealth Peace Prize was awarded in March 2025 to two Nigerian religious leaders, Rev. Dr James Movel Wuye and Imam Dr Muhammad Nurayn Ashafa, co-founders of the Interfaith Mediation Centre.
The Federal Government urged international media outlets and commentators to uphold accuracy and responsibility, avoid sensationalism, and support Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
