The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly refuted claims by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz alleging widespread Christian persecution in Nigeria, describing them as “ignorant, false, and baseless.”
The reaction follows the introduction of the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act by Senator Cruz in the U.S. Senate, a bill that seeks to sanction Nigerian officials allegedly complicit in religious violence. Cruz had accused the Nigerian government of enabling a “massacre” of Christians, citing rising attacks in the country’s Middle Belt region.
In a press statement released on Wednesday, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, dismissed the claims, calling the figures cited by Cruz “fabricated and unsupported by any credible data.”
“This is not a true reflection of what is on the ground. It is absolutely false to claim that over 20,000 churches have been burned or that 52,000 Christians have been killed,” Idris said.
He stressed that no Nigerian government official or institution supports or collaborates with violent extremists targeting any religious group.
“No Nigerian official will deliberately support or side with extremists to attack a specific religion. Nigeria is a multi-faith nation where religious tolerance is constitutionally protected and culturally practiced,” he added.
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Religious Freedom
Idris emphasized Nigeria’s dedication to religious freedom and peaceful coexistence, noting that the country accommodates diverse religious beliefs including Christianity, Islam, and traditional or secular practices.
“Nigeria is a very tolerant country. The government is committed to ensuring freedom of religion and worship for all citizens.”
While acknowledging the reality of violent extremism in parts of the country, the Minister clarified that both Christians and Muslims have been victims of terrorist attacks.
“It’s misleading and unfortunate to claim there’s a calculated plan to wipe out a specific religious group. Extremist violence affects all Nigerians, regardless of faith.”
FG Reassures Citizens, International Community
The Minister reiterated that the Nigerian security forces remain fully committed to combating terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity across the country without discrimination.
“The Federal Government assures all Nigerians and the international community that it will continue to protect every citizen and uphold the right to worship freely,” Idris stated.
The Nigerian government also called for accurate reporting and urged foreign lawmakers and organizations to verify claims with credible local sources before making public statements.
