By Deji Abdulwahab | Abuja, Dec. 12, 2025
In a firm address to a major Islamic gathering, President Bola Tinubu categorically rejected international allegations of religious genocide in Nigeria, framing the nation’s protracted security crisis as one driven by criminality and extremism, not state-sanctioned persecution.
Speaking through the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, at the opening of the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT) 8th Biennial Conference in Abuja, Tinubu’s remarks served as a direct rebuttal to recent geopolitical pressures. His statement comes in the wake of a significant diplomatic development: the designation of Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ by the United States under President Donald Trump, a label often applied over allegations of severe religious freedom violations, specifically citing concerns of a Christian genocide.
“In recent times, the Federal Government and other persons of goodwill, had to address unfounded allegations,” Tinubu stated. “These allegations are not only false but harmful, and capable of inflaming passions and disrupting the sustenance of the peaceful coexistence which we continue to build as a nation.”
Deconstructing the ‘Genocide’ Narrative
The President’s insistence that “there is neither Christian genocide nor Muslim genocide in Nigeria” hinges on a critical legal and contextual distinction. The term ‘genocide,’ as defined by the 1948 UN Convention, refers to acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group. Tinubu’s argument positions the violence plaguing regions like the Northeast (Boko Haram, ISWAP) and the Middle Belt (farmer-herder clashes) as multifaceted conflicts. He attributes their roots to “historical, economic, and criminal issues,” including competition over dwindling resources, historical grievances, weak governance, and the rise of non-state armed groups, rather than a top-down, religiously motivated extermination policy.
“Muslims and Christians alike have been victims of terrorism in Nigeria,” he emphasized, a point underscored by numerous attacks on mosques, churches, and mixed communities. “Muslims and Christians alike stand shoulder to shoulder in condemning violence from any quarter.”
The Government’s Stance and Strategy
Tinubu outlined a dual-track approach to the nation’s challenges. On security, he pledged to “reinvigorate our security architecture to protect all Nigerians, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or geography.” This acknowledges widespread public frustration with the security apparatus’s effectiveness.
Concurrently, he highlighted “bold reforms” to stabilize the economy, attract investment, and create opportunities, admitting these measures cause “temporary difficulties.” This economic angle is crucial, as experts often link youth unemployment and poverty to the recruitment pool for criminal and extremist groups.
The Role of Faith and Community in Building Resilience
The conference theme, “Building Resilience in a Changing World: The Role of Faith and Community,” provided the platform for Tinubu’s message. He praised organizations like NASFAT for promoting moderation, tolerance, and service, calling them indispensable partners for the state. “Government cannot build resilience alone… we rely on institutions like NASFAT to reinforce the moral and spiritual fabric of our society,” he said, advocating for a synergy where “good governance must work hand-in-hand with strong values.”
This call for partnership was echoed by other speakers. Keynote speaker Dr. Nurudeen Lemu urged Nigerians to “hold the rope of Almighty Allah” and cultivate patience and hope. Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, Secretary General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, praised NASFAT while making a pointed call for Islamic practice to evolve: “The world is changing, and our understanding of Islam must also change with time. The application of Islam in the public space must also change.” This reflects an ongoing internal discourse within Muslim communities on modernity and coexistence.
Analysis: A Delicate Balancing Act
Tinubu’s speech represents a delicate balancing act. Domestically, it aims to reassure a populace weary of sectarian tension and violence, urging unity against divisive narratives. Externally, it is a diplomatic counter-narrative aimed at defusing the ‘Country of Particular Concern’ label, which can carry sanctions and damage international standing. The success of this position depends not just on rhetoric, but on tangible improvements in security, economic welfare, and the demonstrable, impartial protection of all citizens’ rights to life and worship. The ultimate refutation of genocide allegations will be a measurable decline in violence and impunity, fostering a climate where Nigeria’s profound religious diversity is truly seen as a “divine design, not a source of conflict.”
Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman | Source: NAN
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