Tinubu has said there is no Christian genocide or Muslim genocide taking place in Nigeria, adding that the country is confronting terrorism driven by criminality and extremism, not religious persecution.
He made this known in Abuja on Friday while declaring open the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society’s 8th Biennial Conference and Annual General Meeting.
The event, which focused on “Building Resilience in a Changing World: The Role of Faith and Community”, brought together faith leaders and members of the Muslim community.
Tinubu, who was represented by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, reacted to recent allegations describing Nigeria as a nation where Christians are being targeted.
“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,” he said.
He explained that Nigeria had responded firmly and calmly to the claims after former United States President Donald Trump listed the country as one of particular concern.
“We reaffirmed that our nation does not foster or tolerate policies or actions aimed at persecuting any religious group,” he added.
Tinubu noted that insecurity in Nigeria is rooted in historical, economic and criminal issues, not in religion. “Muslims and Christians alike have been victims of terrorism in Nigeria. Muslims and Christians alike stand shoulder to shoulder in condemning violence from any quarter,” he said.
He maintained that Nigeria is not experiencing a genocide against any faith. “As President, I reiterate with all sense of responsibility and fidelity to the constitution that there is no Christian genocide in Nigeria, and there is no Muslim genocide in Nigeria. What we have is terrorism driven by criminality, extremism, challenges we are working tirelessly to overcome,” he said.
Tinubu assured that the government will continue to defend unity, promote religious freedom and safeguard lives. “We must reject narratives that seek to divide us, whether they come from within or outside our borders,” he said.
He described Nigeria’s diversity as a strength and commended NASFAT for its role in encouraging moderation, tolerance and service to humanity.
Keynote speaker, Dr Nurudeen Lemu, urged Nigerians to hold firm to their faith and remain hopeful despite the nation’s challenges.
He encouraged unity and patience, warning against actions that could damage the country.
Also speaking, Prof Ishaq Oloyede, Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, praised NASFAT as a leading Islamic organisation.
“We believe five-star will not be enough, because people are now talking of seven-star, and I believe NASFAT will be there,” he said.
He prayed for the continued growth of the society and called for a more practical approach to applying Islamic teachings in public life.
NAN
