The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has dismissed allegations by some United States lawmakers that a “Christian genocide” is taking place in Nigeria.
In an interview with CNN, Idris described the claims as inaccurate and based on misleading data adding that Nigeria’s security challenges were complex and not rooted in religion.
In a statement released by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, the minister emphasized that violent attacks across the country were driven by criminal motives rather than faith-based persecution.
“Yes, there are Christians being attacked, but these same criminals also target Muslims, especially in the northern regions,” Idris explained.
The minister’s comments came in response to calls by some US legislators urging the US Secretary of State to impose sanctions on Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.
Idris firmly rejected the narrative, affirming that Nigeria guarantees religious freedom, human rights, and democracy under its Constitution.
He warned that framing Nigeria’s security crisis as a religious conflict could deepen societal divisions and empower those seeking to inflame communal tensions.
“Portraying the situation as Christians versus Muslims is dangerous and inaccurate,” he cautioned.
Acknowledging Nigeria’s ongoing security concerns, Idris highlighted the efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to strengthen the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other forms of violent crime.
Reiterating Nigeria’s diversity and commitment to tolerance, Idris urged international observers to rely on verified data and credible sources when evaluating the country’s internal affairs.
